Viriditas2: Soul Greening
Interviewed by Sister Malia Dominica Wong, OP
Hawaii Catholic Herald
In a time when many lament declining religious participation, Ana and Guillermo Castillo quietly note that after 40 years of marriage, their children still attend Mass and enthusiastically serve in various parishes.
For them, this is not accidental. Faith, in their household, was never forced; it was modeled. Beyond belief, it became a way of life, a value sustained across decades, cultures and generations.
“We both grew up Catholic,” they explained. “From when we were small children, going to church was just part of life. It wasn’t something extra. It was what we did every week, every Sunday. So when we got married, we didn’t have to think too hard about it. We already knew what was important. Catholic is number one for us.”
They remember their early years together, especially the move to Hawaii.
“I came first,” Guillermo said, “in the 1970s. My family was already here, working in construction. Later she joined me, and we started our life together here.”
Like many families, they faced challenges adjusting, but their faith remained constant. “It helped us stay strong,” Ana added. “No matter what was happening, we always had that.”
When they began raising children, they were intentional. “We wanted them to grow up the same way we did,” they said. “Not just hearing about faith, but living it.” That meant going to Mass regularly, praying at home and being part of the church community. “You have to show them,” Guillermo said. “If they see you doing it, they will follow.”
For them, faith is not about doing everything perfectly. “It’s about continuing,” they said. “You don’t stop. Even if you are tired, even if life is busy, you continue.”
The Castillos’ spiritual practices are simple but steady. They pray together when they can. They attend church regularly, often adjusting their schedules to accommodate family responsibilities, including caring for grandchildren.
Even daily routines, like morning walks, are shaped around time for worship or reflection, or quiet moments at home.
They also believe strongly in serving others. “In our parish, we see people who give their time every week,” they shared. They speak of helping at care homes, assisting at Mass, supporting the elderly and retired priests. “That inspires us. Faith is not only for yourself, it’s something you share.”
Community, too, is essential. Over the years, they have been part of various parish groups. Whether participating in small faith gatherings, supporting church events or engaging in cultural dance groups connected to their heritage, they see these as expressions where traditions and values come together in the church. “It’s all connected,” they said.
At home, they try to pass this on to the next generation. “We have a number of religious statues inside the house and outside in the garden. The grandchildren see them, and they get curious and ask questions. That’s how it starts. Little by little.”