Media Release
 
Ottawa, Dec 17: Canada is an epicentre of multiculturalism and those who live here often say that it is a privilege to live here.  Among many things, Ottawa enjoys four very diverse seasons.   It is a beautiful place to live and raise families. However, one cannot forget his/her roots, traditions and heritages.   Although, the Mangaloreans living in Ottawa have been gathering and celebrating the significant events of Konkani heritage, the creation of new association, 'Ottawa Canara Konkans' will allow them a sense of belonging to this community and to engage with others who have similar and common threads around the globe.   Konkans have been an integral and important part of Ottawa for many decades.
 
Fr Vincent Pereira has been serving the Archdiocese of Ottawa in various capacities for close to 31 years.   It has always been his wish that the Konkans in the city unite and develop a formal community that can work toward local and global Christian goals.  The Mendoncas, D'Souzas, D'Cunhas, Goveases, Martises, Pintos, Fernandeses, Lobos, and the Pereiras and several other families have been getting together for several years informally on occasions, such as Christmas, Easter, Nativity and for summer picnics.   In this way, the Konkans intend to support one another and contribute spiritually and socially to the community.

The Konkans had its first official gathering with a potluck supper, generously prepared by all of the families involved.   Special thanks go for the hard work and coordinating efforts for the event made by Oliver and Sarita Mendonca, Richard Lobo and Joseph Pinto. 
 
The following have been elected as the first office-bearers of the newly-formed Ottawa Canara Konkans.
 
Neville D'Cunha - President
Oliver Mendonca - Secretary / Treasurer
Violet Goveas - Event Organizer
Fr Vincent Pereira - Spiritual Director
 
This new association looks forward to a future of the promotion of Catholic values, community spirit and support and preservation of Konkans' heritage.   Ottawa Canara Konkans also hope to be a voice and advocacy group for the underprivileged and persecuted Catholics and Christians in India and elsewhere.