Shirva parishioners in UAE celebrate Monti Fest in Abu Dhabi

By Oscar Rego
Bellevision Media Network

Abu Dhabi, 13 Sep 2016: UAE’s St Mary’s Welfare Association of Shirva (USWAS) celebrated the Nativity Feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Monti Fest) at Arab Udupi Auditorium, Abu Dhabi on Friday September 9 under the leadership of president Maxim Ferrao.

 

More than 175 Shirva parishioners were gathered to celebrate the Monti fest. Roshan Menezes, the master of the ceremony briefed the gathering about the importance of Monti Fest. A warm welcome was addressed to the gathering by the president Maxim Ferrao.

 

The traditional celebration commenced with a procession headed by Paul and Lilly Menezes who carried the statue of infant Mary and ‘blessed Novem’, which was specially flown from Shirva parish for the occasion. Prayer to worship Infantr Mary was led by Lavina Aranha, Meena Ferrao and Seema Mathias followed by offering flowers by children, young and elders while singing the hymns ’Sakkad Sangatha Mellyam’ and ’Moriyek Hogolsiam’. Blessed Novem mixed in milk was served to all. Children were offered with sweets and gifts.

 

 

The cultural programme commenced with a stunning dance performance by Marsha Menezes and Ishni Fernandes. Band Eagles comprised USWAS active member and music composer of Yo Moga fame - Prashant Sequeira along with Melvyn D’Souza, Ida Fernandes and Ishni Fernandes entertained the crowd with some wonderful hymns, Konkani songs.

 

Various spot games and housie-housie were conducted for kids and adults by Roshan Menezes. A sumptuous traditional vegetarian meal and vorn was served to all. The gathering made all the Shirva members to feel as a united family yet again.

 

USWAS upcoming progamme - Blood donation camp on October 7 at Latifa Hospital Dubai, and annual picnic in November 2016.