Report from BELWAK Correspondent.
Daijiworld Media Network - Kuwait (SP)

Kuwait Sep 29: The coming to earth of Mary heralded joy to the world. For, from her did rise the "Sun of Justice", Christ our God, the promised Messiah.

The feast of the new harvest coincides with the birthday of our Lady on September 8. In gratitude for a bountiful yield, the new crop is blessed and prayed over. Parishioners of Belman Welfare Association and their families celebrated the feast of the Nativity (Monthi Fest) with devotion, pride and splendour, on the evening of September 26 at the Echo Restaurant in Farwaniya, Kuwait. All through this evening, Mangalorean tradition was on the high, reminiscing celebrations back home in native Belman.

Precedence was given to a thanksgiving prayer led by Celine Pinto. Thereafter, BELWAK's President, Tony D'Cruz delightfully welcomed social activist Louis Rodrigues, well wisher Harry Edward D'Souza and the gathering.

In reverence to Mother Mary, secretary Rita Rodrigues led the gathering in the recitation of the Holy Rosary, followed by the singing of the hymn "Sakkad Sangatha Melyan ani Moriyek Hogolsiyan". Leann D'Souza composed music to this hymn. Blessed corn "Novem," mixed with milk was served. 

Prominent well wisher of BELWAK, Harry Edward D'Souza, delivered an inspiring festive message. He enlightened everybody on the life of Mary and her many good virtues, notable among them being her obedience to the plan of God.  He praised the committee members for their dedication and raised a prayer to the Lord of the harvest to send more labourers in to his vineyard so as to make Belman Welfare Association Kuwait more vibrant.

Besides spot prizes, games for adults and children, the gathering was entertained to a scintillating dance performance by little Jane D'Sa and Danika Monteiro. Towards the close, Housie Housie was conducted.

The pinnacle of this celebration was the appetizing Vegetarian meal of Mangalorean cuisine (served on banana leaves), consisting of nine delicacies, accompanied by sweet 'Vorn'. It was relishing. The dining of the harvest meal in unison was indeed the essence of this celebration. 

Vice President Henry D'Mello proposed vote of thanks. He thanked the committee members and all those who contributed towards the organizing of this celebration.

The compere of the day, Clifford D'Souza and Rita Rodrigues were applauded for taking people through the entire proceedings impressively. 

• Nativity Fest Around the World : Report & Pictures: Click Here