by Joyce Lobo
Sydney, Sep 22: 'The Mangalorean Community in Sydney celebrated Nativity Feast on September 17, 2006 at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Hall, Grantham Road, Seven Hills, Sydney About 300 people got together as a close-knit community. George Pinto welcomed the gathering. The Holy Mass was celebrated by Fr. Jude and Fr. Joseph.
Francis Paul set up the Altar with his artistic touch. The coir led by Marianne Fernandes added a touch of solemnity to the religious function. Mother Mary's statue decorated by Eric D'Silva and friends looked stunningly beautiful.
Konkani hymns 'Moriyek Hogolsiyam' and 'Sokkad Saangatha Mellyaam' were sung as children went in a procession and offered flowers to our Lady.
Novem was blessed and distributed to all present. A buffet style lunch was served which included authentic Mangalorean cuisine, and the Mangalorean specialities 'Sannas' and 'Vorn', all dished home cooked by members of the community.
The afternoon was marked with live music from Irvy Coelho, a popular singer in Sydney from amongst our community, which evoked spirited participation by everyone present.
Kiran Saldanha did a wonderful job as Emcee The function ended with a Vote of Thanks by Joyce Lobo'
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