All Souls' Day in Guam

History and Significance: All Souls' Day, known as "Undas," "Todos los Santos," or "Day of the Dead" in Guam, is a deeply rooted tradition with Catholic origins. It is celebrated annually on November 2nd, following All Saints' Day. The day is dedicated to remembering and praying for the souls of those who have passed away, particularly family members and friends.

Traditions: On this day, Chamorro families in Guam typically attend Mass and visit cemeteries where their loved ones are buried. It's a time for prayer, reflection, and remembrance.

• Grave Cleaning: In the days leading up to All Souls' Day, families clean and decorate the graves of their deceased relatives with fresh flowers, flags, and other ornaments.
• Cemetery Visits: Families gather at cemeteries to pray for their departed loved ones. They often bring candles to light at the gravesites and sometimes stay for hours to pay their respects.
• Food Offerings: Traditional food offerings are prepared as part of the commemoration. These offerings can be placed on graves or shared among family members during gatherings.
• Family Gatherings: After visiting cemeteries, it is common for families to come together for a feast that celebrates family bonds and honors those who have passed on.

What People Do: All Souls' Day is marked by a sense of community as people take time off work to engage in the traditions of the day. While it's a somber occasion focused on remembrance, it also provides an opportunity for reunions among relatives who may not see each other regularly. The practices serve both to honor the dead and reinforce family connections among the living.