Media Release
Photographs by : Prakash DSouza & Vijay Almeida
Dubai, Sep 17: ‘ Jesus Mary Joseph’ [JMJ] the largest Konkani Prayer Group in St. Mary’s Church Dubai celebrated their 7th Anniversary with variety of the entertainment at programs and fellowship at the Main Hall of St.Mary’s Church Dubai in the evening 7:30 pm onwards, on Friday 14th September.
The event initiated with a thanksgiving prayer by the Group Advisor Lawrence DSouza. JMJ Group’s Spiritual Director Fr. Frank Gomes was welcomed on the stage by entire JMJ Core Team. On the stage, Jerina Lewis, the Main Coordinator of JMJ felicitated Fr. Gomes with a flower bouquet. In her welcome address Jerina Lewis rendered warm welcome to Fr. Frank, distinguished guests and all other attendees. Fr. Frank in his brief message appreciated the prayer group’s efforts in bringing goodness to the people and advised to continue good work.
Clement Cardozo, new Core member of JMJ submitted an elaborate annual report detailing the progress and activities of JMJ group since the last annual day. JMJ Core member Norbert Mathias rendered vote of thanks.
Much awaited cultural program began with a welcome hymn enacted by talented tiny members of JMJ, Lavita Crasta and Trisha which was well appreciated. Teen member, Calvin Rodrigues sang a modern song ‘ Ekvotan Ami Ravazai’ which won hearts of people for his great singing. This was followed by many great dance numbers by children of various age groups from Dubai’s well-renowned dance group ‘Ocean Kids’ which mesmerized the audience with their hidden talents and superb choreography.
A comedy skit ‘Idea kashi moji’ was performed by members from the Camp area, led by Michael Sequeira with outstanding acting skills along with other talented friends. Enthusiastic member Michael Sequeira also composed and sang a beautiful song to mark the birthday of JMJ prayer Group. Between each dance numbers and songs, lots of prizes were distributed for lucky coupon draw winners.
Well known singer of Dubai and JMJ member Lancy Noronha entertained the crowd with his exceptional singing of solo as well as duet songs with Jerina Lewis. Daiji Ranga Mandir’s Alwyn Pinto too fabulously acted out the role of ‘handicapped’ for Lancy Noronha’s song Thonto. Little, but talented brother-sister duo Pristine and Riva DCosta captivated the audience with their cuteness and beautiful crooning. Melodious music was provided by Norbert Mendonca.
JMJ Advisor Lawrence DSouza compared the entire program with his usual superb MC skills and efficiency. Entire program concluded at 9:15 pm. A scrumptious dinner provided by Najkat Bangalore Restaurant, Sharjah owned by new Entrepreneur K. Lawrence DSouza was served to 600+ attendees.
Like every year, JMJ Konkani Prayer group continues to organize variety programs with great zeal and enthusiasm by arranging grand cultural programs and fellowship to its members, thus providing them memorable events along with every week’s spiritual activities.
JMJ Prayer Group encourage Konkani speaking people reside in Dubai as will as off Dubai City limits like in various camps to lead active Christian life, by providing free transport to attend weekly obligatory mass on Fridays in the evenings and thereafter to the prayers in the main hall. During every Friday prayer gatherings, adoration and the charismatic prayer service in Konkani are being conducted.