Sports enthusiasts from the ecclesiastical districts of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) in Europe, namely, Britain North, Britain South, Central Europe, Ireland, Italy North, Italy South, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Spain, and Western Europe, as well as their supporters, gathered at Barcelona, Spain, for their continental INC Unity Games on May 3 and 4, 2025.

Supervising ministers of the said districts were all present in this big event, which was “historical in such a sense that it’s the first ever activity participated in by all districts in Europe, also a first for Spain District to host since its becoming a district,” said Spain District supervising minister Brother Froilan Enriquez Jr.

Day 1

Participants first flocked to Barcelona house of worship, with the Institut Nacional d’Educació Fisica de Catalunya (INEFC) main auditorium hall serving as an overflow as there were almost 2,000 attendees. There, they attended a special gathering that was officiated at by Brother Robert Pellien, minister of the gospel sent by the Church Administration. As worshiping God is their raison d’être (reason for being), such blessed occasion is the highlight of this two-day sporting event.

In his Bible-based preaching, Brother Pellien reminded the brethren of the importance of upholding unity and love of brotherhood, that is, to glorify God and be worthy of His safekeeping, among other blessings.

“This special gathering is timely, especially for the youth, as we heed the Church Administration’s call to watch over the brethren as the world continues deteriorating,” said Western Europe District supervising minister Brother Marvin Adriano.

Later that day, the brethren proceeded to Estadi Municipal Joan Serrahima (Joan Serrahima Municipal Stadium). Commencing the event were the parade of colors and a prayer, then the opening remarks by Ireland District supervising minister Brother Pepito Acuesta; Western Europe District Christian Family Organizations (CFO) overseer Brother Christian Celestino led the players’ oath of sportsmanship.

As prepared as the players aimed at winning, talented brethren from Spain District showcased their cheerdance and flag performance, followed by two song numbers titled “Blessings Abound” of Western Europe District and “People Of God Give Him Glory” of Mediterranean District. Then, track and field and CWS fun games began at the said stadium; matches of basketball, badminton, speed cubing, and darts at INEFC.

Day 2

Finals happened on the second day, at INEFC gymnasium after the opening remarks by Britain South District supervising minister Brother Harley Alcantara and song and dance numbers of various districts. In addition to the aforementioned sports were football, volleyball, table tennis, and chess.

“Church members in our district were excited upon learning of this activity being their chance to bond with fellow brethren across Europe,” said Northern Europe District supervising minister Brother Vizar Balcita.

After all the games, Brother Pellien led all the 10 district supervising ministers in awarding the winners. Britain South District was declared as the overall champion.

“I’m very happy and it’s a wonderful experience just to be able to join the games along with other brethren,” said track-and-field first placer Bettina Mattera. Indeed, “Seeing everyone unite in one activity is really heartwarming,” expressed Louise Dominguez of the winning district. — With reports from Noemi Jimenez of INC News Section