Melbourne : Mangloreans celebrated Monti Fest with tradition

By Sunil DSouza
Bellevision media Network

Melbourne, 14 September 2011: Mangaloreans residing in Melbourne gathered at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Mission Church, Hoppers Crossing at 11.30 am on Sunday 11th September 2011 to celebrate Monthi Fest in all its joy and vigour. As per the traditional practice the whole congregation and the vibrant children with flower baskets proceeded to the statue of Mother Mary and offered flowers with the accompaniment of hymns (Sokkad sangata melya and Moriyek hogolsiya). The procession to the church which was followed by the Holy Eucharist in Konkanni was presided by Rev. Fr. Anil Cornelio (P.P of Bayswater, Victoria), Fr. Albano da Costa, SVD (Boxhill, Victoria) & Fr. Prakash Cutinha (Asst. to the Dean, Cathedral, Melbourne). The enlightening homily during the mass preached by Fr. Prakash was well appreciated by all.

 

Br. Prakash Menezes (SVD) and Mr. Valerian Menezes led the choir. Young talent Elroy and Mr Clemet Lobo graced the occasion with their beautiful music. The hymns were melodious and laudable. As a symbol of new harvest, fresh fruits and vegetables were offered during the offertory. Mr. Valerian Menezes thanked the gathering for their participation.

 

 

The celebrations of the day were organised in the community hall at Hoppers Crossing where all the people gathered for lunch (Novem) and cultural programme. Fr. Anil Cornelio graced the meal which was lovingly prepared by many of the people who had gathered for the celebration. Traditional “Vorn” added to the delicacy of the food. Sugarcane was distributed to all. Mr. Elias Mascarenhas enlightened the gathering on the relevance and importance of the Feast of Nativity. Mr Stephen D’Souza was the compere for the programme. He, along with Fr. Prakash, kept the gathering entertained with their sense of humour. There was strong participation in the singing competition which followed, the results of which are;

Under 15 Category

1st Prize – Dwayne Fernandes
2nd Prize – Fay D’Souza
3rd Prize – Jill D’Souza

 

Above 15 Category

1st Prize – Reena Veigas
2nd Prize – Reena Lobo
3rd Prize – Arun Vaz

 

Duet Category

1st Prize – Sunil D’Cunha & Reena Veigas
2nd Prize – Arun Vaz & Sunil D’Cunha
3rd Prize – Colin Fernandes & Reena Lobo

 

The singing competition was followed by folk, cultural and western dance performances by people from different parts of Melbourne. Mr & Mrs Sandria Manoj D’silva brought back the nostalgic memories of Mangalore with the songs of late Mr Wilfy Rebimbus which was well appreciated by the gathering. The programme came to an end with vote of thanks from Mr Stany Martis which was followed by Baila dance.

 

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