Media Release
Melbourne, Apr 24: Lent is a solemn time of reflection, reverence, penance, and renewing our unique connection with God, who sent His only begotten Son to redeem mankind from the bondage of sin.
Karaval Konkans Australia Inc organised a powerful and spiritually uplifting Lenten reflection for the Konkani-speaking community of Melbourne, drawing over 200 people to St Christopher’s Parish, Syndal, Melbourne, on Palm Sunday, April 13, to contemplate God’s infinite love.
The evening commenced with the Stations of the Cross, a deeply reflective 14-step Catholic devotion tracing the final journey of Jesus Christ from His condemnation to His entombment.
This was followed by the emotional highlight of the evening—a moving 20-minute play titled “What the lord’s passion teaches me”. The performance, brought to life by the youth and children of the community, deeply resonated with the audience as it connected the Passion of Christ to the challenges and realities of contemporary life.
The young cast, featuring Wilson D’Souza, Kyra Goveas, Lisa Dsa, Rianna Lasrado, Rishan Pinto, Nadine Dsilva, Melissa Monis, Yonathan D’Souza, and Noah D’Souza, delivered their lines in fluent Konkani, despite having grown up in Australia—an impressive testament to their commitment and cultural pride.
The play was a collaborative masterpiece, with the script penned by Ashley D'Silva and Wilson Kalakar, song lyrics by Maxim Monis, music to the song by Nolan D'Silva, and music & audio mixing by Prajoth D'sa. The entire production was brought together under the direction of Wilson Kalakar, whose vision and guidance made the performance truly impactful.
Following the play, Holy Mass was celebrated by Fr Jacob Alvares, who blessed the palms and delivered a stirring homily on the passion and crucifixion of Christ. A carefully curated selection of hymns, beautifully sung by the KKA choir under the leadership of Sandria D’Silva, added to the sacred atmosphere, reinforcing the themes of Lent.
To conclude the evening, attendees enjoyed a traditional meal of Paez and Galmbi Chutney, lovingly prepared by the committee members. This shared meal rekindled fond memories of communal gatherings back home, strengthening the bonds within the community.
The Karaval Konkans Australia Inc Committee expresses deep gratitude to all those who attended and contributed—through time, talent, and financial support—to make this a meaningful, reverent, and memorable Lenten reflection.