By William Pais
Pics by Sandeep D'Souza

Mangalore, Sep 8: The nativity of Blassed Virgin Mary combined with Harvest Festival of the Kanara Konkani catholics was celebrated in Guardian Angels Church Angelore, with devotion and festive fervor. The new crop was blessed in the ‘ The Old Church House’  currently residence of the Jayanth and Josphine D Souza. The century old mansion was used as church around 8o years ago, before the Angelore Church could be built.

Fr Mathew Vas, Vicar of the parish, dwelt on the historical significance of the place and led the faithful in prayer. Children who brought baskets of flowers showered them on the statue of Infant Mary and the whole atmosphere turned colour ful. The new crop was taken in the solemn procession to the church along with Statue of Infant Mary and was followed by Mass.

Later the new corns of paddy was distributed among the faithful. The church atmosphere wore a festive look as children took home sugarcanes and people ushered in festival of togetherness, family unity and thanksgiving to nature’s bounty.