Report and Pictures from Oswald M. D'Souza
Daijiworld Media Network - Abu Dhabi (ODS)
Abu Dhabi, Sep 11: Konkani Community of St. Joseph’ Parish Abu Dhabi celebrated the Feast of Nativity (Monthi fest) solemnly with traditional fervor and gaiety at the St Joseph’s Cathedral premises on Thursday, September 1O evening.
The ceremony commenced with little children and teenagers showering 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 Infant 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 devotees braved hot and humid weather and gathered in large numbers in the church premises. The new corn (Novem), was blessed which was especially flown all the way from Mangalore for the occasion, signifying the new harvest.
On this occasion the new statue of Infant Mary donated by Leo and Lavina Rodrigues and their family was also blessed.
Later a short procession was taken around the church compound, carrying the statue of Infant Mary bedecked with flowers,
The Mass was offered in Konkani by Fr. Anthony Lopez of the the Bishops House inside the Cathedral to a full capacity crowd. In his Homily Fr. Lopez stressed the meaning of the nativity and the importance of Mother Mary in our lives and of this great festival, specially close to the hearts of the Konkani community of Mangalore, Goa and the inhabitants of Konkan belt. Due to the massive crowd, wide screens were installed in strategic places in the church hall so that all the devotees could witness and participate in the ceremony.
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.
Earlier Rev. Fr. Savari Muthu – the Parish Priest of St. Joseph’s Church applauded and thanked the Konkani Community for their enthusiasm and outstanding services towards the parish and appreciated the devotion of the community towards Mother Mary..
Leo Rodrigues – KCO’s current president thanked those contributed towards the day’s function and appreciated the help of all those volunteered towards the ceremony, specially members of KCO and other Konkani groups as well as the ushers.
The new crop (Novem) was distributed to all devotees after the Mass.
As per K.C.O.’s tradition, light refreshment was served to all the attendees, symbolizing the spirit of sharing among families on this special occasion
It can be recalled that the nativity feast in Konkani was initiated by KCO (Konkani Cultural Organization) almost 15 years ago and has become a permanent fixture every year and is appreciated by all.