Christianity is the predominant religion in Guam, with over 93% of the population identifying as Christian. The island, a US territory, has a deeply ingrained Catholic culture, with roughly 80–85% of its 165,000 residents identifying as Roman Catholic.
Roman Catholicism
- History: Catholicism was introduced in 1668 by Spanish Jesuit missionary Father Diego Luis de San Vitores. The conversion was initially peaceful but led to, and was followed by, intense conflict known as the Chamorro-Spanish Wars, which significantly transformed Chamorro culture.
- Significance: Catholicism is heavily embedded in the culture of the indigenous Chamorro people. The Archdiocese of Agaña serves the island, with over two dozen Catholic churches, including one in each of Guam’s 19 villages.
- Devotions: Key aspects include devotion to Saint Joseph Vaz (patron of the island) and traditional practices like the techa (female prayer leaders) and nobenas (novenas).
- Challenges: The church has recently faced a sexual abuse crisis involving clergy, but this has not decreased participation to the same extent as in other regions.
Protestantism and Other Christian Denominations
- Protestant Presence: Following the Spanish-American War in 1898, when Guam became a US territory, American naval administrators introduced Protestantism, which did not gain wide acceptance, though it remains present.
- Denominations: There are several Baptist, Episcopal, Lutheran, Presbyterian, and non-denominational churches.
- Other Groups: Other Christian groups, including Jehovah’s Witnesses and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons), are also present.
Influence on Culture
- Traditions: Spanish colonial rule (1668–1898) left a lasting impact, with many Chamorros adopting Spanish surnames.
- Veneration of the Dead: Respect for ancestors is still a key cultural value, often blending traditional beliefs with Catholic prayers, such as with the taotaomo’na (spirits of ancestors).
- Modern Day: Christian celebrations like Christmas and Easter are major events on the island.
Links for further overview of Guam:
Stichting HEALING THE NATIONS 