Media Release
Chicago, Dec 17: The Mangalorean Konkan Christian Association celebrated its 22nd annual Christmas celebration at Ashyana Banquet Hall in Downers Grove, Illinois. In the Konkani language, it is popularly called as Natal Fest, which celebrates the birth of Jesus christ. Christmas is celebrated by all the 2.5 billion Christians worldwide on December 25.
The compere of the programme Savio Pais, current secretary of MKCA, initiated the programme by introducing himself as the Compeer of the programme. He welcomed the president of MKCA, Dr Austin D’Souza Prabhu to present the welcome note. In his president’s address, he made a plea to the Christian community of the Chicagoland area to be actively involved and participate in its cultural programmes organized by MKCA. He asked them to spread the word to others in the community about these programmes. He thanked the organizing committee members and guests for their staunch support of the success of several annual programmes, especially this programme. He thanked Secretary Savio for his relentless efforts in making all the past year's programme a success.
He welcomed the newly elected office bearers, president, Pragathi Pinto, vice president, Leonard Lobo Shenoy, secretary, Savio Pais, joint secretary, Nula De Abreo, and treasurer, James Saldanha. Pragati in her president’s address thanked Austin or his long-standing leadership to MKCA. She assured the audience that she would do her best in promoting the MKCA Association. She asked for the support of the audience in its future programmes.
Savio, requested readings from missal by the members of MKCA, which were read by Sarita D’Souza and Roopa Misquita.
Pragati Pinto conducted several group activities for children and adults. The children presented their spirited participation while adults relived their younger age! All the winners were excited to receive gifts from MKCA.
The members and children present sang Christmas carols, under the leadership of Concy Mesquita team of musicians. The grand entry of Santa Claus (Austin Prabhu) thrilled the young children present. The Santa entertained the children present with Christmas gifts. The audience, young and old present were excited to take pictures with Santa.
Savio Pais thanked the organizing committee for their relentless support in the success of the programme. He thanked all the audience for their gracious participation in the programme. The programme culminated with a sumptuous ethnic dinner. Under effective DJing by Roopa Misquita and Queenie Mendonca, the audience enjoyed dancing to the tunes of Konkani, English, Hindi, and Spanish songs.