The island is mourning the loss of Pale Mike Crisostomo, a steadfast leader of the Catholic Church and a guiding presence in the community, as condolences pour in after his passing last week.

Father Mike peacefully passed away surrounded by family after suffering a stroke last Wednesday. Respectfully known to many as Pale Mike, the priest leaves behind an indelible legacy after dedicating 29 years of his life to service in the church. Ordained to the priesthood in 1996, he made a lasting impact as a faithful priest, a cherished friend, and an active leader within both the Archdiocese of Agana and the wider community.

Prior to his passing, Pale Mike served as pastor and parochial administrator of Saint Anthony Catholic Church. Most recently, he held the same role at Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Inalahan.

Throughout the last three decades, Father Crisostomo served in numerous leadership roles, including vicar of clergy for the curia, chair of the Guam Coalition for Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse, chaplain for the Catholic Daughters, director of the Archdiocese’s Ministry for the Homeless Soup Kitchen, and Erica’s House, among many others.

Following his death, Archbishop Ryan Jimenez extended prayers and condolences to Father Crisostomo’s family, asking all Catholics to join in prayer for him and his loved ones. In a statement, Archbishop Jimenez said, “We thank Our Lord for the blessing of this wonderful priest.” Island leaders also expressed their condolences.

Governor Lou Leon Guerrero said in part, “His ministry reached far beyond the church, touching lives through service, advocacy, and quiet acts of mercy that strengthened our community in meaningful ways.” Lieutenant Governor Josh Tenorio adding, “Father Mike served Guam with an open heart and a deep sense of purpose, both in the church and in his work to protect the most vulnerable among us. He walked with families through moments of joy and sorrow, always leading with compassion, empathy, and quiet strength.”

Speaker Frank Blas, Jr. also shared his sympathies, stating, “On behalf of the 38th Guam Legislature, I extend sincere condolences to the Crisostomo family, the clergy, and the many parishioners and friends who grieve his passing. We join them in prayer and remembrance, grateful for the legacy of faith and kindness that Pale Mike leaves behind.”

Weeknight rosaries will be prayed at 5:30 p.m., followed by mass at 6:00p.m. at Saint Anthony Catholic Church in Tamuning. On Saturday and Sunday, the rosary will be prayed at 4:30 p.m., followed by mass at 5:00 p.m. Funeral mass arrangements will be announced shortly.