Bahrain

Bahrain is a small island nation in the Persian Gulf with a big role in the region. Once known for its pearl diving and as home to the ancient Dilmun civilization, today it serves as an important financial and diplomatic center. With a population of about 1.5 million, nearly half are foreign workers—many from South and Southeast Asia—who’ve come seeking better opportunities.

While Bahrain is a Muslim-majority country, it has shown more openness to other religions compared to many of its neighbors. Nearly all Bahraini citizens follow Islam, mostly Shia, while the ruling family is Sunni. Christianity, Hinduism, and Judaism are practiced by small communities, mostly made up of expatriates. Christians make up around 8–12% of the population, with Filipinos forming a large part of this group. Although public evangelism is not allowed and locals converting to Christianity can face persecution, Christians are permitted to worship in recognized church buildings. A major sign of this religious openness was the opening of the Cathedral of Our Lady of Arabia in 2021—a church that seats over 2,000 and now serves Catholics across the Gulf.
Bahrain still faces many challenges. Political unrest that started during the Arab Spring protests in 2011 left lasting tensions, especially between the Shia majority and the Sunni ruling class. Bahraini converts to Christianity can suffer serious consequences like job loss, family rejection, and legal troubles. Public expressions of non-Islamic faith are limited, and access to Bibles is mostly through churches or online. Still, in quiet and private spaces, small groups of believers meet, and Christian communities—especially among Filipino workers—continue to live out their faith with quiet strength and resilience.
Yet there is hope for the future. The younger generation in Bahrain is well-educated, connected to the world, and open to new ideas. These young people may help shape a future where freedom of faith and deeper understanding between communities become more common. The presence of the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet and Bahrain’s strong ties with Western countries also play a role in encouraging openness and stability. Despite the struggles, the Church in Bahrain continues to be a light in the darkness—praying, loving, and standing strong in a place where faith is quietly but powerfully alive.
Lets pray.