Catholics observe the start of the Lenten season this Ash Wednesday

Catholics around the island embraced a solemn truth this Ash Wednesday: “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”

From North to South and at the Hagatna Cathedral Basilica, the faithful united in mass for the start of the Lenten season. 

Island resident Gayle Shinohara said, “We were created by him–we were born, we were created, and we’re going to return to him. And that’s what we look forward to–it means there’s a chance for you to find your way back to him.” 

It’s a reminder the devout bearing the mark of the cross on their forehead are holding close to their heart as they embark on a journey of penance, reflection, and renewal. 

This time of contemplation and sacrifice brings some even closer to their faith. 

“There’s just some things that people go through in their life that really really make them grateful and remember where we came from,” said another resident Brianna Sanchez. 

And with droves of people flocking to the island’s capital for the special day, it’s clear that this religious tradition lives on through generations of catholics. 

Resident Sylvia Stake shared, “Since I was baptized Catholic, my mother would take me to church.” 

And Yona resident Austin Terlaje said, “Throughout my life, Lent has always been an important time for myself and for my family…To take the time out to start the year right and reflect, and do what we need to do kind of empower us spiritually, and I think that’s one of the most important aspects of Lent for myself.”