News and Pictures by Rons Bantwal

Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Sep 24: In the Catholic tradition, the feast of Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary is traditionally celebrated as Monti Festh (feast) and a feast of family by Mangalurean Catholics around the world with religious fervor.

Monti Festh was celebrated with joy and vibrancy at St Lawrence Church Wagle Estate too.

The main celebrant was asst parish priest Fr Hubert Goveas.

Initiated by Fr Hubert Goveas and assisted by the Konkani Catholic Group under the guidance of Fr Jervis D'Souza, parish priest. Special mass was organized at 5.30 pm on September 12 in traditional manner.

600 people attended the same of all communities. It was not a Mangalurean feast but Fr Hubert termed it as 'Vande Mataram' which means feast of community. There was active participation from all religious sects in various communities.

Childrens were trained to walk in procession, with flower baskets as followed by beautiful tradition. This was followed by veneration of the baby statue of Mary.

Offertory consisted of 20 items ranging from fruits to vegetable. New corn was blessed by Fr Jervis D'Souza, parish priest and later distributed.

Following the mass was 'nove jovan' and then an entertainment programme. 500 people attended the same where the entertainment lasted for 3 hours. It was a grand celebration to be marked during the celebration of silver jubilee this year.