Although Bali is widely known for its Hindu culture and temples, the island is also home to a diverse Christian community. Both Indonesian Christians and expatriates living in Bali have access to a number of churches representing different denominations and worship styles.
To better understand how Christianity fits within the wider religious landscape of Indonesia, readers may also find it helpful to read about religion in Indonesia (https://expat.or.id/info/religion.html), which explains the country’s officially recognized religions and how they coexist.
In recent decades, Bali’s international population has grown significantly. As a result, several churches now provide English-language services that welcome expatriates, long-term residents, digital nomads, and tourists who wish to attend worship while visiting the island.
Many expatriates who relocate to the island discover that church communities can also be an important part of social life while living in Bali (https://expat.or.id/bali.html), providing opportunities to meet other residents and build friendships.
Christian churches in Bali include Catholic, Protestant, evangelical, and independent international congregations, many of which hold services in both Indonesian and English.
International and English-Speaking Churches
Several churches in Bali specifically serve the international community and conduct services in English. These congregations often attract expatriates working across Indonesia as well as visitors staying temporarily on the island.
Gateway Bali
Gateway Bali is one of the longest-established international Christian fellowships on the island. Founded in 1979 as the English Worship Service, it was the first non-denominational English-speaking church in Bali.
Today it remains a diverse congregation of Indonesians, expatriates, and visitors from around the world.
Gateway Bali offers worship services, fellowship activities, and small groups for people seeking a Christian community while living in or visiting Bali.
Website: https://gatewaybali.com
Kuta International Christian Church
Kuta International Christian Church serves English-speaking residents and visitors in the southern Bali area. The church focuses on building a cross-cultural Christian community and welcomes both Indonesian and international worshippers.
Services typically include worship music, biblical teaching, and fellowship activities for families and individuals.
Website: https://kutainternationalchristianchurch.com
Other International Churches
In addition to the churches listed above, Bali has a growing number of international congregations and fellowships that hold services in English or offer translation. These include newer churches and international ministries that cater to expatriates and tourists staying on the island.
Because the expatriate community in Bali is dynamic, the location and schedule of these fellowships may occasionally change.
Expats who are new to the island often connect with these communities through broader expatriate networks. More information about organizations and clubs can be found in the section on expatriate organizations in Indonesia (https://expat.or.id/orgs/).
Catholic Churches in Bali
Catholic expatriates can attend services at several churches across Bali.
St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church – Kuta
One of the best-known Catholic churches serving international visitors is St. Francis Xavier Church in Kuta. Located near Ngurah Rai International Airport, the church offers Mass in several languages and is popular with both tourists and expatriate residents.
The church is one of the most internationally attended parishes in Bali due to its proximity to major tourist areas.
Holy Spirit Cathedral – Denpasar
The Holy Spirit Cathedral in Denpasar serves as the cathedral of the Diocese of Denpasar. Built between 1993 and 1998 and later expanded, the cathedral reflects a unique blend of Catholic liturgical design and Balinese architectural elements.
The cathedral supports many parish groups and activities serving the wider Catholic community in Bali.
Protestant Churches
Protestant Christianity in Bali is largely represented by the Gereja Kristen Protestan di Bali (GKPB), which was established in 1931 and now includes dozens of congregations across the island.
Many GKPB churches hold services in Indonesian, though some offer translation or special services that are accessible to international visitors.
Readers interested in understanding the cultural diversity of Bali may also wish to explore the broader context of Balinese culture and traditions (https://expat.or.id/info/balinese-culture.html), which helps explain the island’s unique religious and social environment.
Worship for Expats and Visitors
Many expatriates in Bali attend church not only for worship but also for community support. Churches often provide:
- Fellowship groups
- Youth and children’s programs
- Social outreach activities
- Community events and holiday services
For newcomers to Indonesia, religious communities can provide both spiritual support and a social network. Those planning to relocate to the island may also find useful information in the guide to moving to Indonesia (https://expat.or.id/info/moving.html).
Practical Advice
Church service schedules and locations can change periodically as congregations grow or relocate.
Visitors are advised to:
- Check the church website or social media for updated service times
- Confirm whether services are conducted in English, Indonesian, or both
- Arrive early, particularly during major holidays such as Christmas and Easter
Most churches in Bali welcome visitors and international guests.
Frequently Asked Questions About Churches in Bali
Are there English-speaking churches in Bali?
Yes. Several churches in Bali provide English-language services for expatriates, international residents, and tourists. These include international congregations as well as some local churches that offer bilingual services.
Can tourists attend church services in Bali?
Visitors are generally welcome at churches throughout Bali. Many congregations are accustomed to international visitors and provide services that are accessible to both locals and foreigners.
Are there Catholic churches in Bali?
Yes. Catholic churches are located across Bali, including well-known parishes such as St. Francis Xavier Church in Kuta and the Holy Spirit Cathedral in Denpasar. These churches serve both Indonesian Catholics and the international community.
How can expats find a church community in Bali?
Many expatriates discover church communities through word of mouth, online searches, or through broader expatriate networks. A helpful starting point is the directory of expatriate organizations in Indonesia (https://expat.or.id/orgs/), which lists various groups and communities across the country.
