Media Release

Oman, Sep 10: Mangalurean Catholic Community of Sohar (MCCS) celebrated Monti fest at St Antony’s Church Sohar, here. September is that part of the year when mother earth adorns itself in green attire. Green is the colour of life, prosperity and colour with a pleasant feeling.

Birthday of mother Mary is celebrated throughout the world with utmost love and passion for our beloved mama Mary. September 8 is celebrated as ‘Monti fest’, the birth of mother Mary in Mangaluru. This day is also celebrated as the harvest festival.

Mangalureans of St Anthony church Sohar, celebrated Monti fest this year on Friday September 6.

Preparations for this day began a week ago by organising cricket and throwball tournaments for children, ladies and gents. The awardees were felicitated on the day of celebrations of the feast. All the devotees gathered at the parish hall for the rosary and ushering of flowers after which the decked up statue of mother Mary was taken to church in solemn procession. This year it was a privileged to have bishop Paul Hinder.

The parish priest of Sohar, Fr Augustine was the main celebrant.

After mass all gathered at the hall for traditional ‘novem jevan’. Bishop Paul Hinder, Fr Augustine and guest priest Fr Lawrence K G joined in celebrating the birthday of mama Mary. ‘Novem’ was consumed by all the gathered, signifying family unity.

Awards for the winners of the games and also awards for the students who passed 10th grade were part of the events for the day.

Sumptuous vegetarian food was prepared by members of the community. ‘Laudate’ was sung by all after the meal.

Needless to say, the evening was a mega family gathering away from hometown.