Saint Joseph, Husband of Mary
- Address: 7PFX+MCX, InalÄhan, 96917
- Phone: +1 (671) 828-8102
- Email: stjoseph_1@outlook.com
about Saint Joseph, Husband of Mary
- Recurrence: Recurring every March 19th
- Location: St. Joseph Catholic Church
- Time: 4:30 PM
Saint Joseph, Husband of Mary
đ Address: St. Joseph Catholic Church, Route 4, InalĂ„han, Guam 96917
Dates: March 19, 2026 Location: InalÄhan (Inarajan) Time: 4:30 PM
Honoring the Husband, The Fiesta of St. Joseph
In the historic southern village of InalÄhan, the community gathers to honor St. Joseph, the Husband of Mary and the earthly father of Jesus. While the village celebrates St. Joseph twice a year, the March 19th fiesta specifically honors his role as the protector of the Holy Family. This celebration is deeply woven into the fabric of InalÄhan, known as Guam's most well-preserved Spanish-era village.
Whether you are a pilgrim seeking spiritual connection or a visitor admiring the historic architecture, the Fiesta of St Joseph offers a glimpse into the deep faith and resilience of the southern community.
THE HISTORY OF ST JOSEPH IN INALĂ HAN
The devotion to St. Joseph in InalĂ„han is one of the oldest on the island, with the parish established by the Spanish in 1680. Local oral history tells of the statue of St. Joseph arriving by "divine intervention"âit was originally intended for the village of Umatac, but a storm prevented the ship from landing there. The vessel was forced to dock in InalĂ„han instead, where the statue has remained ever since. The church itself, rebuilt several times due to wars and typhoons, stands as a testament to the village's strength and is the final resting place of the Chamorro martyr Father Jesus Baza Duenas.
FIESTA TRADITIONS: FAITH, HISTORY, AND HERITAGE
The celebration in InalÄhan is unique due to the village's designation as a Historic District, providing a timeless backdrop for the festivities.
The Spiritual Procession
The solemn procession winds through the narrow, historic streets of InalÄhan, passing centuries-old homes and the legendary Gadao's Cave. Devotees carry the statue of San Jose, praying for the protection of families and fathers. It is a visually striking event, contrasting the solemn religious icons against the vibrant colors of the southern coast.
The Village "Gupot" (Party)
InalÄhan is renowned for its hospitality. Following the mass and procession, the "Gupot" opens up with an abundance of southern-style Chamorro cuisine.
