FDMS makes pilgrimage to Inarajan to celebrate Father Duenas

Father Duenas Memorial School students visited Inarajan on Monday to learn more about the history of their school’s namesake, Father Jesus Baza Duenas.

The student body celebrated Mass at historic St. Joseph's Church, presided over by Friar alumni Rev. Richard Kidd and Rev. Mike Crisostomo, and Coadjutor Archbishop Michael Byrnes.

Following the Mass, students toured the historic southern village. They visited a variety of Spanish-styled homes, including the Ana Leon Guerrero and Manny San Nicolas homes, both of which have semisubterranean storage rooms called "bodegas" and ifit wood. The George Flores house, home of the Hotnu Bakery, is temprorarily closed for renovations.

The tour ended at the house where Father Duenas was tortured by Japanese soldiers before being forced to walk around the village. The students then returned to the church where they listened to Inarajan resident Tomas Paulino, who was baptized by Father Duenas and witnessed his torture.

Concluding the trip, students paid their respects to the slain priest by bowing and praying before his gravesite, buried beneath the altar of St. Joseph's Church.

Learning the legacy

The Friars learned many lessons about the history and founding of their school. Senior and student council President Kai Akimoto said the lessons his fellow Friars learned strengthen their brotherly bond.

“Being a Friar has to do with understanding the legacy behind the institution we are a part of," Akimoto said. "FD has developed numerous traditions, but I think the most important ones are service to the community and respect for others.” 

Father Duenas was well respected in his community for these traits of service, honor and respect. FDMS, named after the wartime priest, serves as a reflection of him. As the island moves on, more than 75 years past his death in 1944, the school’s values are rooted in his sacrifice and actions.

Duenas continued to hold Mass for his people during the Japanese occupation, disregarding the demands of the Japanese soldiers. He also withheld information about American radioman George Tweed.

”We should understand the reasons for his actions. Father Duenas saw more than himself, and I think that’s something our students fail to understand today," Akimoto said.

Father Duenas is an influential figure in Guam’s history, a beacon of honor and courage, a role model for all those who call Guam home. His spirit lives on in today's Father Duenas Memorial School Friars.