Manama, Bahrain — United with Jesus (UWJ) Bahrain brought the Christmas spirit to life for the OFW community in Manama, gathering everyone for a lively Christmas celebration on December 12, 2025, at the InterContinental Hotel’s Ambassador Hall. About 105 people showed up, mostly Overseas Filipino Workers and their families filling the place with laughter, music, and real holiday warmth.
The event was led by Lead Pastor Virgilio Fernandez, with the program hosted by Emcees Francis Mirador and Anne Santillian, and supported by Joni Rose Longabela and Annaliza Fernandez.
A heartfelt exhortation was delivered by Rhenz Christopher Borja, who emphasized that Christmas that Christmas is truly merry because of Jesus Christ. He conveyed that, ‘’The most significant present of Christmas is Jesus, a gift bestowed by God for all, and urged the group to remember that Christmas represents the love of God in action, encouraging believers to embody that love in their everyday lives’’.
Group Presentations and Performances
The night buzzed with group performances and dance numbers. Teams represented the Houses of John, Luke, Peter, James, Mark, Timothy, and Paul. The White Team, from the House of James, really wowed the crowd.
- Gold Team – House of John and House of Luke
- Red Team – House of Peter
- White Team – House of James
- Green Team – House of Mark, Timothy, and Paul
The White Team (House of James) was recognized as the People’s Choice Awardee, receiving warm applause from the audience.
Games, Awards, and Festive Highlights
The fun kept rolling with a Christmas Quiz on Kahoots, hosted by Kathy Camposano featuring Bible-based questions, Ina Jeshaiah Fernandez nailed the answers and took home the win.
Edna Tuayon showed up as Lady Santa and snagged Best Dressed Female, while Ronnie Sunga grabbed Best Dressed Male.
Raffle prizes, gift exchanges, more dance and song, and joyful laughter kept everyone in high spirits all evening, strengthening the bond among the OFW community.
At the end, everyone left with full hearts and stronger friendships. UWJ Bahrain’s Christmas party did more than just celebrate the season.
The Christmas celebration was not merely a festive occasion, it brought people together, reminded them of God’s love, and made a little corner of Bahrain feel like home while celebrating the true meaning of Christmas.
United with Jesus (UWJ) Bahrain is a Christ-centered, Bible-based Full Gospel church dedicated to transforming mindsets and empowering individuals to lead impactful lives. Located in Manama, Bahrain, the church serves as a family away from home, particularly for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and others seeking spiritual guidance, fellowship, and support.
UWJ Bahrain emphasizes Bible-centered teaching, worship, and community-building, creating spaces where members can grow spiritually, develop leadership skills, and live out their faith in practical ways.
Serving as a family away from home for OFWs in Bahrain, UWJ Bahrain continues to provide spiritual nourishment, encouragement, and fellowship through Bible teaching, worship, music, and community-centered events. The Christmas celebration reflected the church’s mission of unity, faith, and empowerment among Filipinos working abroad.
