News: Sunita Furtado
Pics: Pritham Fernandes
Oman, Dec 26: The Mangalorean Catholic Centre of the Parish (MCCP) heralded the season of Christmas and conducted a fun-filled fiesta for the children of the community on December 6, 2023 at the Sts. Peter & Paul Church Hall, Ruwi.
MCCP had organized Christmas Craft contests for children of various age groups along with a Star Artistry contest for adults. The day commenced with participants joyfully presenting their exquisite works of art at the venue, thus showcasing their talent and imagination. The beautiful array of creativity and innovation displayed in their exhibits was truly impressive. Delectable snacks from Angels Bakery was provided and enjoyed by all present.
Master of ceremonies, Praveen Niddodi, then took center stage and extended a heartfelt welcome to all present. He then invited MCCP president, Nirmala Goveas, and members of the executive committee to join him on stage. MCCP’s spiritual director, Fr Stephen Lewis was welcomed and he led the gathering in prayer. The atmosphere took a festive turn as the much-anticipated special guest, Santa Claus, made a grand entrance. Accompanied by the merry sound of jingling bells, Santa Claus brought joy to the gathering, presenting a bag filled with chocolates that sparked excitement among the children. A splendid Christmas cake from Angels Bakery was cut and shared among all, thus symbolizing the day’s festivities.
A whole lot of excitement awaited the children as emcee Praveen conducted engaging and entertaining fun games for all age groups. From the thrilling ‘Bombing the City’ to the skillful challenges of ‘Shooting Cups’, ‘Balancing Cups’, and ‘Spoon and Ball’, children eagerly competed against one another for coveted prizes. Judges Fr Stephen Lewis, Nirmala Goveas and Sunita Furtado undertook the challenging responsibility of evaluating the craft contests and determining the deserving winners.
The winners of the fun games were felicitated by the EC members and goody bags were distributed to all participants. DJ Savio Sequeira enthralled the gathering with his music while photographer Pritham Fernandes captured the special moments on camera. The winners of the Christmas Crafts and Star Artistry contests were announced. They will be honoured at an upcoming MCCP event scheduled next year.
President Nirmala Goveas extended heartfelt gratitude to all participants for their spirited involvement, thus contributing to the resounding success of the event. In closing, emcee Praveen wished everyone present a Merry Christmas and a joyful and prosperous new year. The essence of Christmas, characterized by love, joy, and togetherness radiated during the event, thus making it a truly special occasion.
MCCP was grateful to their supporters MC Praveen Niddodi, Pritham Fernandes for photography, DJ Savio Sequeira, Vikas Fernandes, Stino Pinto, Loy Castelino, Lloyd D’Cunha, Steevan Pereira and Joy Corda.
Winners of Christmas Craft & Star Artistry contest:
KG I & II – Snowman
Winner - Resten Pereira
1st Runner-up - Hensia D’Souza
2nd Runner up - Rochelle Corda
Std 1 & 2 – Christmas Card
Winner - Shawnell Lewis
1st Runner-up - Elon D’Souza
2nd Runner-up - Gian Covelho
Std 3 & 4 – Christmas Card
Winner - Niyola Pinto
1st Runner-up - Rachel Fernandes
2nd Runner-up - Elina D’Souza
Std 5, 6 & 7 – Christmas Wreath
Winner - Shavin Chris D’Souza
1st Runner-up - Janis Sequeira & Rion Chris D’Souza
2nd Runner-up - Jessel Pinto
Std 8, 9 & 10 – Christmas Tree Cone
Winner - Melston Rebello
1st Runner-up - Michelle Pinto
2nd Runner-up - Nathan Lewis
Star Artistry Contest
Winner - Savio Sequeira
1st Runner-up - Wilson Fernandes (Kinnigoli)
2nd Runner-up - Sunil D’Souza & family