Media Release

Brisbane, Sep 10: The Mangalorean Catholic Association of Brisbane (MCAB) celebrated its 11th annual Monthi Fest, the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, with faith and devotion at St William’s Parish, Grovely, on Sunday, September 6.

Nearly 240 registered members of the community participated in the celebration, which beautifully blended Mangalorean Catholic traditions, spirituality and fellowship.

The celebrations began with children and families showering flowers around the crib of Mother Mary, a cherished Monthi Fest tradition symbolising love, gratitude and prayers. This was followed by a solemn procession carrying the statue of Infant Mary into the church.

The Holy Mass was celebrated in Konkani by Fr Salvador, who travelled from Toowoomba for the occasion. Traditional Konkani hymns rendered by the choir added to the devotional atmosphere and evoked nostalgic memories of home among the congregation.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, the community gathered in the parish hall for the blessing of the new paddy harvest and the traditional ‘Novem Jevan’. A fully vegetarian harvest meal comprising seven authentic dishes was prepared and served by MCAB members.

A sugarcane juice stall was also organised during the celebrations, with the proceeds earmarked for charitable causes. The initiative received wholehearted support from the community.

The celebrations concluded with a lively game of Tambola, followed by traditional Mangalorean Baila music, with members taking to the dance floor and enjoying the festive spirit.

The 11th annual Monthi Fest once again highlighted the strong bonds of faith, heritage and togetherness among the Mangalorean Catholic community in Brisbane.