San Isidro, Labrador (Saint Isidore the Laborer)

San Isidro, Labrador (Saint Isidore the Laborer)

📍 Address: San Isidro Catholic Church, Malojloj Highway, Inalåhan, Guam 96917

ABOUT SAN ISIDRO

Dates: May 16, 2026 Location: Malojloj (Inalåhan) Time: 4:30 PM

Celebrating the Farmer's Saint: The Fiesta of Malojloj

Located along the scenic southern hills of Inalåhan, the community of Malojloj celebrates its patron, San Isidro Labrador (Saint Isidore the Farmer). As the agricultural heart of a region already known for farming, Malojloj takes this celebration seriously. It is a tribute to the land, the farmers who till it, and the simple, devout life of San Isidro, who famously prayed while angels plowed his fields.

For visitors, the Malojloj fiesta offers a stunning drive through the rolling hills of southern Guam. The community here is distinct from the main village of Inalåhan, with its own rhythm centered on ranching and farming. This fiesta is arguably the most agriculturally focused celebration on the island.

THE HISTORY OF THE PARISH

Malojloj was established as a farming community, and for years, its residents had to travel to the main St. Joseph church in Inalåhan for services. As the population of farmers grew in the post-war era, the need for a local sanctuary became clear. The church of San Isidro was built to serve these families, adopting the Spanish farm-laborer saint as their perfect spiritual match. The church structure itself sits on high ground, offering sweeping views of the southern landscape, watching over the ranches ("lånchos") scattered throughout the valley.

FIESTA TRADITIONS: BLESSINGS OF THE EARTH

The connection between faith and farming is the soul of this fiesta.

The Procession of the Carabao

The procession in Malojloj is iconic. While it features the statue of San Isidro, it is famously accompanied by the blessing of farm animals and equipment.

• The Parade: It is tradition for local families to bring their tractors, trucks, and—most importantly—their carabao (water buffalo) to be blessed. The carabao are often decorated with flowers, serving as a living link to the island's agricultural past.

• The Route: The procession moves along the main highway, flanked by tall sword grass and the open sky, creating a picturesque scene that photographers love.