Daijiworld Media Network - Abu Dhabi (ODS)
Report and Pictures by Oswald M. D'Souza
Abu Dhabi, Sep 9: Konkani Community of St. Joseph’ Parish Abu Dhabi celebrated the Feast of Nativity (Monthi fest) solemnly with traditional zeal and gaiety at the St Joseph’s Cathedral premises on Thursday, September 8, 2010 evening.
The outdoor ceremony commenced with little children and teenagers showering colourful flowers to show their love and affection towards infant Mary. The impressive scene was eye catching with little kids thronging around the graceful statue of Infant Mother Mary, near the church grotto, excitedly participating in the breathtaking ceremony singing the traditional “Sakkad Sangatha Melyam ani Mariyek Hogolsiam”, which echoed the church premises, the rhythm filling the air creating a blessed ambience.
The devotees braved hot and humid weather and gathered in large numbers in the church premises. The new corn (Novem), specially flown all the way from Mangalore for the occasion was blessed signifying the new harvest. H.E. Bishop Paul Hinder, before his departure to Rome, attended the ceremony and delivered a brief message appreciating the Konkani speaking Community of Abu Dhabi for their love for Mother Mary and their commendable service to the Church in Abu Dhabi.
Later a short procession was taken around the church compound, carrying the decorated statue of Infant Mary bedecked with colourful flowers.
The Mass was offered outdoor in the sprawling Cathedral premises by Fr. Anthony Lopez – spiritual Director of KCO and other Konkani prayer groups, who is also resident priest at the Bishop’s House. The service was attended by large gathering of devotees. In his Homily Fr. Lopez stressed the meaning of the nativity of Mother Mary and its significance, the feast which close to the hearts of the Konkani speaking Catholic community of Mangalore, Goa and the populace of Konkan belt.
Due to the massive crowd, wide CCTV screens were installed in strategic locations in the church premises, so that all the devotees could witness and participate in the solemn ceremony.
As the symbol of new harvest, fresh fruits, flowers and vegetables were offered during the Mass by young children.
The Konkani Choir, with melodious hymns specially arranged and conducted for the occasion under the leadership of Lena Fernandes, along with the talented singers of the parish was commendable and elevated the spirit of the occasion.
At the beginning of the Holy Mass Rev. Fr. Savarimuthu – the Parish Priest of St. Joseph’s Church appreciated and thanked the Konkani Community for their enthusiasm and outstanding services towards the parish and lauded the devotion of the community towards Mother Mary.
KCO’s current president Gerald D’Mello thanked those who contributed towards the day’s function and appreciated the help of all those who selflessly volunteered towards the ceremony, specially members of KCO, the choir and other Konkani groups as well as the untiring dedicated ushers of the parish.
The blessed new corn (Novem) was distributed to all devotees after the Mass.
As per K.C.O.’s tradition, light refreshments were served to all the attendees, symbolizing the spirit of unity and sharing among families on this special occasion. The celebration relived the memories of back home, wherein families join in and have a meal together.
It can be recalled that the nativity feast in Konkani was initiated by KCO (Konkani Cultural Organization) almost 17 years ago and has become a permanent fixture every year and KCO’s efforts in uniting people of the community is appreciated by all.
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