Media Release - Pictures by Deepak Pereira

Sohar Sep 14:  The birth celebration of our devoted Mother Mary, commonly known as Monti Fest by every Mangalorean, was celebrated with devotion and much zeal by the Konkani speaking community of Sohar’s  St.  Antony’s  Church , Sultanate of Oman .  This celebration is one of the much awaited feast by every Mangalorean as it brings all under one roof as a single family.

This year the feast was celebrated on the 12th of September 2013 at 8.00am with a common rosary at Mother Marys grotto. The new corn was blessed at the Grotto and children showered flowers as all sang  "Sakkad Sangatha Melyan".  The Congregation then proceeded to the Church in a devotional procession.

The holy mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr Franklin Philip D’Souza, well-known Catholic preacher, who is also the  new secretary for CBCI Commission for Youth and the new national director of Indian National Youth Commission (ICYM).  In a very meaningful Homily he expressed how Mother Mary plays an important role in everyone’s life.  He also prayed specially for the youth and children and advised them to take care of their parents who have been struggling to give them a better future. The beautiful Konkani  choir led by Franky Monis and his daughter Franzia Monis inspired every Mangalorean as it reminded them of their beloved and much missed home town.

After the Holy mass, Fr. Fanklin and Fr. Johnson cut the birthday cake as everyone sang the birthday song to Mother Mary. The Noven or blessed corn was distributed to all the faithful. Special goody bags were distributed to all the little children.

The community then gathered at the parish hall to celebrate the feast by having a traditional dinner. Freshly home cooked varieties of vegetarian dishes were served.  Few cultural programs were conducted by Deepak D’Souza and team and these added zest and flavor to the evening celebration.
The community thanked each and every one specially Mr. Richard Alwyn D’souza for taking this initiative and having such a gathering. The event was a proof of unity among the Mangalorean community in Sohar. The Community promised to continue this tradition every year as it re-kindles the Mangalorean tradition in each heart.