Report: Alex Lewis
Pics: Ramcy Fernandes
Daijiworld Media Network - Dubai
With Inputs from St Mary's Catholic Church, Dubai

Dubai, Jan 15: True to its theme 'One Family, One Community, One World', the 'Family Festival 2012' organised by the family ministry of St Mary’s Catholic Church Dubai brought together thousands of parishioners from all walks of life and all countries of the world into a family event that filled the minds and hearts of everyone with joy and happiness.

With the theme 'One Family, One Community, One World', the ambitious St Mary’s 'Family Festival 2012' was celebrated on Thursday January 12 and Friday January 13 at the church premises.

The sponsors joined the priests of the parish in the formal inaugural ceremony on January 12 evening. Parish priest Fr Tomasito expressed his gratitude to all the sponsors and invited all parishioners to make the best of this festival and to have a joyous celebration.

The second day, being a Friday, had special programme for children in the morning with magic show, games and dance with mascots. The cool evening attracted most parishioners for more excitement and fun, which included performances by the parishioners.

The highlight of the evening was a special song and dance performance by priests and nuns led by Fr Tomasito.

As in the past, this event too was organised as a platform for various cultures, communities, traditions and all families that make up the huge parish, to come together as one family, interact, share, enjoy and have fun. The organising committee worked hard to emphasise the family spirit and organised various stage shows, cultural programmes, food stalls and games – for both adults and for children.
 
With its cultural and social flavour, the Family Festival also generated revenue and which will be used to the much needed community welfare activities of the parish and the Vicariate.

The festivities on both evenings included colourful traditional and contemporary dances by various parish communities and groups, magic shows, raffle draws, spot prizes and musical interludes. The food stalls catered to different tastes with their delectable dishes.

The stage events were successfully carried out with the assistance of MC Errol Goveas.

The two days of fun, entertainment, stage shows, games, food and enjoyment, everything empahsised that the St Mary's Parish in Dubai is a firm believer in 'One Family, One Community, One World'.