Abu Dhabi: Konkani Community of St Joseph’s Cathedral Celebrates Monti Fest

By Ronald D’Souza
Bellevision Media Network

Abu Dhabi, 11 Sep 2016: Konkani Community of Abu Dhabi Parish celebrated the Feast of Nativity (Monti fest) solemnly with traditional fervour and gaiety at the St Joseph’s Cathedral premises on Thursday, September 8 at 8.00 pm.

 

The ceremony commenced with little children and teenagers offering colourful flowers to show their love and affection towards infant Mary. The dazzling scene was eye catching with little kids thronging around the graceful statue of Mother Mary, at the back stage, enthusiastically participating in the beautiful ceremony singing the traditional hymn, ‘Sakkad Sangatha Melyam’ and ‘Mariyek Hogolsiam,’ which echoed the church premises, the rhythm filling the air creating a holy ambience.

 

The new corn (Novem), was blessed which was especially flown all the way from Mangaluru for the occasion, signifying the new harvest.

 

Later a short procession was taken to the Cathedral carrying the statue of Mother Mary bedecked with flowers.

 

A concelebrated Mass was offered in Konkani by Fr Rodson Goveas, spiritual director or Konkani community along with Fr Troy de los Santos, OFM Cap., Vicar General at the cathedral attended by a large number of faithful.

 

 

In his homily, Fr Rodson stressed the meaning of the nativity and the importance of this great festival. Show your love to your heavenly mother by loving your own mothers, sisters, spouses and daughters, said Fr Goveas.

 

As the symbol of new harvest, fresh fruits and vegetables were offered during the Mass by the community members.

 

The Konkani Choir, with soothing hymns specially arranged and conducted for the occasion under the leadership of Wilfy was praiseworthy and elevated the spirit of the occasion.

 

During occasion Fr Troy de los Santos, Vicar Gerneral conveyed Bishop Paul Hinder’s message and felicitated the donors of the event.

 

Stage programme was held after the Mass. Traditional authentic Novenm Jevaan was served to the large crowd on behalf of the Konkani Community. The aroma and taste of the Mangalorean food brought back nostalgic memories of back home and serving of delicious Vorn sealed the dinner with a great Mangalorean experience.

 

The new crop (Novem) and sugar canes were distributed to all devotees after the Mass.