In a corner of Ampelokipi, somewhere between motorcycle repair shops and other businesses in Mesogeion, there is a special temple. This is the church of the Filipinos “Jesus Is Lord”, one of the most deeply religious peoples, who celebrated Christmas again this year in Athens, in their own unique way.

Watch video from the Christmas of the Filipinos of Athens:

Entering the building, on Christmas day, nothing foreshadows, initially, that it is a religious place. But upon reaching the first floor, everything changes. The visitor encounters a truly gospel environment, with a stage, harmonium, guitar, bass, drums and amplifiers, as well as speakers, some posters on the walls, lamps and projectors with worship messages about Jesus Christ.

The most special element, however, is the smile with which the “foreigner” is greeted by the Filipinos who are in the area. “Would you tell us your name” is the first question someone hears after the warm welcome. The name will be written on a piece of paper and shortly afterwards will be read over a microphone by the female pastor, with everyone present standing up for applause. “Everyone is welcome here, regardless of color, class, gender, nationality, creed” says the pastor from the microphone.

A Greek man, around 55, was already there. He seemed to be visiting the Filipino church for the first time. The pastor then asked a woman to sit next to him and translate for him every part of the Christmas service that he would not understand. The service – in this case evangelical Protestants of the Jesus Is Lord Church which has a presence in 60 countries – is held in a mixed language, about half English and half Filipino. “That’s how we speak anyway” they reply to anyone who asks why they don’t use Filipino exclusively – and English is the country’s official language. The woman – “translator” had taken on the mission assigned to her with great responsibility, as she translated for the Greek visitor and also showed him excerpts from the Gospel on her mobile phone, while the pastor was speaking.

Within seconds the silence is broken. It is the moment – one of many – that the musicians and the five performers begin the song. From uplifting tunes (e.g. Feliz Navidad), to slow ballads, everyone seems to be enjoying every moment, with their hands in the air, often with tears in their eyes. “You are amazing God, there is no one like you, you are amazing God, your power is so real” they sing aloud, all standing – including the Greek “foreigner” – throughout the music. The music continues, the singing continues, and towards the end the pastor asks everyone to close their eyes and keep their faith alive. Everyone hugs, including the guest, and “Merry Christmas” echoes through the room, before everyone descends to the ground floor. It’s Christmas in the Mediterranean.