Report and Pictures from Oswald D'Souza
Daijiworld Media Network - Abu Dhabi (ODS)
Abu Dhabi, Sep 12: Konkani Community of Abu Dhabi Parish celebrated the Feast of Nativity (Monthi fest) solemnly with traditional fervour and gaiety at the St Joseph’s Cathedral premises on Thursday ,September 11 evening.
The ceremony commenced with little children and teenagers offering colourful flowers to show their love and affection towards infant Mary. The dazzling scene was eye catching with little kids thronging around the graceful statue of Mother Mary, near the church grotto, enthusiastically participating in the beautiful ceremony singing the traditional “Sakkad Sangatha Melyam” and “Mariyek Hogolsiam”, which echoed the church premises, the rhythm filling the air creating a holy ambience.
The new corn (Novem), was blessed which was especially flown all the way from Mangalore for the occasion, signifying the new harvest.
Later a short procession was taken around the church compound, carrying the statue of Mother Mary bedecked with flowers and candles.
A concelebrated Mass was offered in Konkani by five preists on the open grounds of the Cathedral to a full capacity crowd. In his homily, Fr Antony Lopez based in Abu Dhabi stressed the meaning of the nativity and the importance of this great festival, specially close to the hearts of the Konkani community of Mangalore and Goa.
As the symbol of new harvest, fresh fruits and vegetables were offered during the Mass by young children.
The Konkani Choir, with soothing hymns specially arranged and conducted for the occasion under the leadership of Leena Fernandes, was praiseworthy and elevated the spirit of the occasion.
During occasion Msngr. Francis Jameison of Bishop’s house conveyed Bishop Paul Hinder’s message and appreciated the enthusiasm and enormous services given by the Konkani Community to Abu Dhabi parish.
The new crop (Novem) was distributed to all devotees after the Mass.
The Konkanni Cultural Organization (K C O) as per their tradition, distributed light refreshment and drinks to all the participants after the wonderful ceremony.
The K C O president Robert Rego, thanked the main celebrant and other priests, the other church organizations, the sponsors and helpers who had rendered their assistance to make this day a memorable one.
The whole proceedings brought back the memories of the aged old tradition of Mangalore, wherein the feast of Mother Mary is celebrated with gaiety, and the feeling of oneness was felt among the Konkanni speaking people of Mangalore and Goa residing in Abu Dhabi.
It was indeed a great job done by K C O and the Konkani Prayer Group in organizing this memorable event.
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