Media Release

Sharjah, Sep 12: With great joy and devotion, St Michael’s Mangalorean Konkani Community (SMMKC), Sharjah celebrated Monthi Fest, the feast of the Nativity of Mother Mary, on Saturday, September 7, under the guidance of Fr Denis Saldanha OFM Cap.

The spiritual preparation for Monthi Fest was preceded by nine days of novena, including a Triduum retreat and novena prayers. A multitude of people gathered for the Holy Rosary, Eucharistic adoration, and the Holy Eucharistic celebration, along with a grand celebration of Besp.

The novena days were enriched by the Triduum preacher, Fr Joel Lopes, who delivered inspiring sermons and led spirit-filled prayers that deepened the spiritual journey, culminating in the joy of the celebration. The novena concluded with a solemn Besp(Vespers) on its final day, preceding the Feast day.

It was heartwarming to see children enthusiastically attending the novenas in large numbers and showering flowers on Mother Mary.

To encourage enthusiastic and joyful participation, various competitions were held for both children and adults, including “Dress Up Like a Saint,” singing, and a Bible quiz. A total of 91 participants took part in these competitions, showcasing their devotion and passion for Mother Mary.

On the feast day, September 7, over 3,500 faithful devotees participated in the solemn Eucharistic celebration. Children of all ages offered flowers to Mother Mary while singing the hymn “Moriek Hogolsia.” Newly harvested paddy corns were blessed by Fr Denis. The Feast Day Mass was celebrated by the main celebrant, Fr Joel Lopes, and concelebrated by Fr Denis, Fr Deo, Fr Savarimuthu, Fr Derek, Fr Victor, and Fr Joywin, enhancing the solemnity of the day. The melodious choir added to the spiritual ambiance, with around 3,500 Catholics attending.

After the Holy Mass, a cultural program took place in the parish hall, captivating the audience with graceful dances and melodious songs performed by both adults and children. The program was skillfully compered by Uttam Menezes and Sunitha D’Souza, who engaged the crowd throughout. The grand entertainment event was well-organized and appreciated by all. Winners of the various competitions were awarded their prizes. Alwyn Coutinho, SMMKC coordinator, thanked the community members, priests, and the gathering for their whole-hearted support and motivation for the success of this event.

After the cultural program, blessed “kenshi” and food packets were distributed to the gathering.

The Monthi Fest left an indelible mark on the Sharjah Konkani community, and the solemn celebration was made possible by the generous support and active involvement of the community members. The community beautifully and devotedly experienced one of Mangalore's most revered traditions, thanks to the hard work of the SMMKC committee members and the sub-committee members.