For many Filipinos, Christmas is a time for family gatherings, going to church together, and exchanging gifts. It’s a season most awaited filled with lights and holiday tunes.

Yet, for some, Christmas is marked by a different experience — one not centered around usual traditions.

In the Philippines, Christmas is widely celebrated by various Christian denominations, including the Roman Catholic Church, Protestant Churches, Evangelicals and Charismatic groups, and Aglipayan Churches. 

Among those who do not observe this as a religious holiday are the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC), whose teachings emphasize that there is no biblical foundation for celebrating the birth of Christ.

For Jade, a long-time member of the INC, the 25th of December was always observed differently. Growing up, she often wondered why her religion was not the same as others.

For members of the INC, the lack of a biblical basis for Christ’s birth means that Christmas is not considered a religious holiday.

While other children eagerly awaited the arrival of Santa Claus, she would spend Christmas Day much like any other, attending regular worship services and focusing on spiritual teachings. The absence of Christmas trees, lights, and celebrations somehow made the contrast stark.

“I would think about it, especially during Christmas, when most of our relatives at home are Catholic,” she shared.

During her first few years in a Christian-Catholic high school, Jade also recalled experiencing what today’s generation calls “FOMO” (fear of missing out), particularly as her absence was often automatically expected at religious activities and Christmas parties.

“It makes me feel out of place, especially when we come back from the Christmas break and everyone starts sharing stories,” Jade recalled.

Surrounded by Catholic family members, Jade is still included in some of their small traditions, like gift-giving. However, instead of feeling the joy that these gestures might bring, she often feels a discomfort when her relatives make remarks about her being part of the INC.

“And even though they say that, they still give me the gift. It makes me feel guilty, especially when I was younger,” she added.

Now, at 22 years old, Jade’s perspective on Christmas has changed. Her experiences, the people she’s met, and the places she’s been to have shifted how she views the holiday. 

“Before, I was really focused on my religion and beliefs, but through the years, I’ve become more open-minded,” she explained. “I’ve come to realize that holidays aren’t always about religious beliefs — they shouldn’t always be about that. It’s more about being together.”

For Jade, the holiday season is one she no longer feels compelled to celebrate, but she sees it as an opportunity to focus on love, connection and togetherness. 

Reflecting on her journey, she believes that the true value of the season lies not in the festivities, but in the bonds shared with others.

If she could speak to her younger self or to anyone experiencing the same sense of exclusion she once felt, Jade said she would remind them that the essence of the holidays isn’t found in parties or gifts. Rather, it’s about spending time with loved ones, taking time to reflect and appreciate life’s blessings, and spreading kindness.

“Even if my past self did not get to participate in events like Christmas parties, I think I still did the essence of that holiday, in a way that my past self believe was most appropriate.”