A most memorable Abu Dhabi KPG Anniversary Celebration

Pics by : Ranjan Kumar - Broadway
Bellevision Media Network

Abu Dhabi, 03 June 2012: June 1, 2012 was a memorable day for the Konkani Charismatic Prayer Group (KPG) members of St, Joseph’s Cathedral, Abu Dhabi as they celebrated their 12th Anniversary at St. Joseph’s hall with the theme " Bhavadthaan Jive kristache dive" - (Glowing with faith, lamps of Christ).

 

Konkani Charismatic Prayer Group in short KPG is actively involved in all church activities since its inception 12 years ago. They are providing yeoman service to the community at St. Joseph’s Cathedral providing services in various ministries such as layman, ushers, volunteers, guides, community leaders, Choir, Sound System, charity, education in fact they are involved in every community service.  Their service during main festivals and services such as Christmas, Easter, Ash Wednesday, Monday Thursday, Good Friday are commendable and be applauded.  They work morning till evening without break sometimes to see that all arrangements for the great festivities are in place and also especially on weekends were number of masses are held for all community in various languages.   It’s God’s blessing that these young man carry out these tasks which are praiseworthy.

 

Therefore, having worked through out the year it was time on this Friday to take a break and spend time with Konkani community with their grand 12th anniversary.  The grand celebration commenced at 9.40 am with praise and worship led by Robert Pinto and followed with Eucharistic mass of the feast of Holy Trinity celebrated by the Vice Chancellor and Ecclesial Judge and the spiritual director of the prayer group Rev, Fr. Valerian Fernandes OFM, Cap, along with more than 400 faithful attending the mass.  Snacks were served at 11 am.

 

The cultural program started with the theme song by the KPG members composed and tuned by Rupert Rosario. This was followed by an action song by the children in the age group of 5 to 11. The little kids were amazing and were applauded by the audience for their wonderful performance.  Then came the welcome dance of prayer in Bharatnatyam by the multi talented Ms. Florance Pinto, which was acclaimed by all.

 

 

A brief stage program to felicitate the guests was held namely: Rev. Fr. Savarimuthu OFM. Cap, Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Lennie Connully OFM Cap, the Vicar General, Rev. Fr. Valerian Fernandes OFM Cap, the Vice Chancellor and Spiritual Director of Konkani Prayer Group, Mr. Conrad D’ Souza, the Parish Council Vice President, Mr. Leo Rodrigues representing KCO Abu Dhabi, Mr. Alphonces Mendonsa representing Pearls of Mangalore and Mr. Walter D’ Almeida, an ardent supporter of KPG were led to the dais by the KPG coordinator Br. Valerian D’almaida. The guests were welcomed with floral bouquets by the core committee members- Rohan Correa, Flavia Crasta, Rosy Martis, Sharmila D’Souza, Robert Cardin, Arun Menezes and Rosy Fernandes.

 

Br. Valerian D’almaida welcoming the guests presented the report of KPG highlighting the various activities. This was followed by the cutting of the anniversary cake by all the distinguished guests. Fr. Savarimuthu, Fr. Lennie and Fr. Valerian gave brief messages and with a group photograph of the guests with the core committee members taken, the stage program ended.

 

A wonderful Konkani re-mix fast dance was presented by KPG members namely Smitha Dsouza Robert Cardin, George D’ Souza, Maria Pinto, Jerome Vaz, and Wilma Pinto dancing to various numbers choreographed by Smitha and wonderfully costumed.

 

Interesting Spot games based on Konkani language and culture theme were conducted by the M.C. Avin Prem.  The prizes were given away at the spot for the winners.  Grace before meals were prayed by Fr, Valerian and sumptuous lunch was served at 1 pm sharp by Canara Restaurant Dubai.

 

The highlight of the celebration was the most awaited short drama of one hour by jo.si. Siddakatte - Khoim Tuji Savaari?, a comedy drama with a clear message to the present society and especially to the married couple who want to get married but do not want children for the sake of their carrier and success. The drama was well acted by KPG talented actors - Canute Pinto, Lancy D’Souza, Darryl Menezes, Roshni Menezes, Florance Pinto, Flavia Pinto, Anand D’Sa, Conrad D’ Souza and Valerian Dalmaida under the direction of Canute Pinto.   Choreography by Rupert Vaz and Rohan Correa.  All the characters were at their best and presented the drama beautifully with fitting dialogues.  The characters Bostu (Canute Pinto) and Valli (Lancy D’Souza) and Jessibai (Roshni Menezes) were outstanding.  The Character Bostu and Valli provided laughter medicine and had audience enjoying the drama thoroughly with rib tickling comedy.  The end was superb with a solid social message by retired school master Antony (played by Valerian D’almeda).  The audience appreciated the acting by all characters and the drama with a thunderous applause at the end of the drama.

 

The members and guests went away with wonderful memories at 3 pm singing laudete to the tune of Music ministry. In all, it was one of the most memorable and a wonderful program and well presented with sharp time management skills.  Faultless sound system was provided by Broadway Sound Systems including Videography and Photography.  All members of the KPG played important roll organizing their anniversary and saw that everything is in place and presented in time and professionalism.