Rons Bantwal

Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai (EP)

Mumbai, Sep 17: The Konkani committee of Sacred Heart Church, Mahakali caves, Andheri east celebrated Monti fest of mother Mary for the third year in succession.

The devotees prayed in front of the decorated grotto in the church premises on September 15. Carmelite priest Fr Peter Pereira (OCD) blessed the paddy grains. Children offered flowers to the statue of mother Mary.

Fr Peter Pereira offered mass and delivered the homily under the guidance of Sacred Heart Church chief priest Fr Innocent Fernandes. Fr Jossy Fernandes (SVD) and Fr Sunil D Cyril took part in the solemn high mass. Lastly, pure traditional vegetarian meals were blessed.

In the religious programme held at Sacred Heart auditorium, Fr Infant Fernandes gave the festival message and distributed paddy grains to the devotees. He also presented flower bouquets to the donors and honored them. Association secretary Francis Castelino welcomed the gathering. President Tressy Richard Peres gave an introduction. Vincent D’Souza compered the programme. Treasurer Anella Quadros read out the list of donors.

Alwyn D’Souza and party performed comedy skits and staged Mangaluru’s culture. Children of the members welcomed the gathering by a welcome dance. Women and children conducted the cultural programme with music and dances.