By: Janet D’Souza

Pics: Aaron Fernandes, Ivan Lobo

Mississauga, Sep 18: Monthi Fest, or the Nativity of Our Lady, is a cherished tradition for the Mangalorean Association of Canada (MAC), celebrating customs like the blessing of rice, fresh flowers, organic vegetables, and sharing a vegetarian meal with family. With devotion and festive spirit, MAC hosted this year’s Monthi Fest on September 7 at Maximilian Kolbe Parish in Mississauga.

The Monthi Fest celebrations organized by MAC began with a heartfelt welcome from Gerry D’Mello, followed by a touching floral procession by children to the beloved Konkani hymns Sokkod Sangatha Mellyam and Moriyek Hogolsiyan. The faithful then participated in a deeply spiritual Konkani Mass led by Fr Roshan Loy D’Souza, with a stirring homily by Fr Stephen Lobo, OCD. The Mass was concelebrated by a distinguished group of clergy members: Fr Ranjan D’Sa, Fr Rajesh D’Souza, Fr Sunil D’Souza, Fr Rajesh Madtha, Fr Wilson Andrade, Fr Henry Alva, Fr Jerome Mascarenhas, Fr Kevin Fernandes, and Deacon Sarfaraz Pinto. Among the devoted attendees was Sr Ferdinanda, a steadfast supporter of MAC. The Eucharistic celebration was uplifted by the melodious harmonies of a talented choir led by Merlyn Rodrigues, whose direction brought depth and grace to the liturgy. The dedicated altar servers carried the Cross and assisted with the presentation of the gifts, while the statue bearers of Mother Mary carried her with devotion and reverence. The Holy Mass began with a warm welcome and concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Charlotte D’Souza, expressing gratitude to the clergy, attendees, and sponsors. Blessed candles were distributed to all Mass Muddhoms and sponsors, adding to the spiritual richness of the event.

The celebrations continued at the Pope John Paul II Hall with a vibrant cultural program. The MAC president and vice president welcomed guests, highlighting Monthi Fest’s importance and previewing MAC’s exciting plans for its 25th anniversary in 2026. Emcees Adelyn Mathias and Aidan Mathias led the evening’s festivities with charm and poise. MAC extended thanks to all clergy, sponsors, volunteers, and performers for their generous support.

The program began with a moving enactment of the Marian Apparitions, beautifully narrated and performed by children. Dressed in authentic costumes and filled with reverence, they brought to life Mary’s motherly presence and her intercessory power, touching every heart in the audience. Dance performances enthralled with their expressive movements, blending artistry, emotion, and precision. Soulful music and singing followed, with talented vocalists and musicians delivering harmonies that deeply resonated with the audience. A well-timed comedy skit by gifted community members added a delightful touch of laughter, thanks to clever dialogue and impeccable timing.

Ronald and Suneetha D’Souza, known as pillars of the community, were acknowledged for their dedicated service. From opening their home for event practices to actively contributing at every level, they have shown generosity without bounds. Ronald, a skilled craftsman, has tirelessly created props and games for MAC, while Suneetha has guided and mentored children during lenten retreats. Their commitment, leadership, and kindness have touched many lives, setting an example of service and compassion. They were honored by MAC in a simple yet touching ceremony at Monthi Fest.

Sponsors, recognized as valued collaborators, were honored on stage for their generosity and commitment to the community. Believing in the power of youth as the cornerstone of the future, MAC also presented scholarship awards to the deserving winners of the Scholarship Program, reinforcing its dedication to education and empowerment. The winners were Yohan Soans (Grade 8), Carol Pinto and Ashley Mathias (Year 1 university), and Roysten Rego (Year 2 university). MAC expressed pride in all applicants and winners, wishing them well in their educational journey.

Fr Ranjan D’Sa led the grace before meals with a prayer and reflection, continuing a tradition endearingly followed by Catholics universally. This was followed by a sumptuous vegetarian dinner including Pothrade, Bimbli Saar, roasted potatoes, and Vorn, lovingly catered by Loy D’Souza of Konkan Delite. The final item in the program was the 50/50 raffle draw, with 50% of the proceeds allocated to the Bernadette Mission, Toronto, which provides parental relief for children, youth, and adults with disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy, down’s syndrome, and blindness. With the singing of Laudate, the cultural program concluded.

MAC expressed appreciation for the support and participation of all the volunteers and participants, especially Samson Soans, Aaron Fernandes, Ivan Lobo, Abigail, Allison and Antonio Peres, Ashley Mathias, Caroline Menezes, Rhea and Emma Saldanha, Sarah D’Almeida, Rianna D’Souza, Jaden D’Sa, Olivia D’Mello, Savannah D’Souza, Yohan, Zach and Zoey Soans, Rohan and Nina Crasta, Flavian Pinto, Gerry D’Mello, Patricia Pinto, Suzanne Aranha of Naach for Fun, Sunitha Aranha, Prescilla D’Cunha, Juliet D’Souza, Laveena D’Souza, Melissa Pinto, Denver Pinto, Manohar Pais, Sonia Monteiro, Crystal Lobo, Deborah Lewis, Carol Lobo, Carol Pinto, Andrea D’Souza, Daniel Saldanha, Edison Jackson, Kimberlyn DeSouza, and Sweedle Pinto. MAC also thanked the executive committee, management committee and their families for their tireless efforts in organizing and executing the event.

Here is the link for pictures: https://photos.app.goo.gl/8HHobkWod3TwACpR8