From Carol Mathias
Pics by Allan Castelino / Vaishak
RAK, Sep 13: Ras Al Khaimah, 9 September 2016: The Konkani Community of St. Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic Church, Ras Al Khaimah, celebrated the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary on Friday, September 9 with great religious fervor. The RAK Konkani Community consists of many Mangalorean and Goan families.
The devotees, along with two priests, marched in procession to the Mother Mary's statue behind the Church premises singing “Sokkad Sangaatha Melyaan” where the flower-strewing ceremony took place. About 80 children joined by adults strewed flowers to honour Mother Mary, singing “Moriek Hogollsiam”.
The Feast high-Mass was celebrated by Fr. Darel OFM Cap., of Mangalore, and the Community Priest, Fr. Maxim Pinto OFM Cap. of St. Michael’s Church, Sharjah. Fr. Darel OFM Cap. gave a heart-warming homily. The choir sang beautiful hymns to add splendor to the Mass. The devotees joined the choir in singing, as every hymn was displayed on a visual screen in bi-lingual script and hymn-sheets were also distributed, thus making participation in the Mass, more meaningful. The Mass was well-attended by nearly 300 devotees from all over the UAE.
An entertainment programme was organized immediately after the Mass, in the hall, where chocolates were distributed to the children. The programme was compered by Sushma Olivera and the welcome speech was given by Lathika Castelino. After the corn was blessed by the two priests, it was mixed with “Orn” which was served as part of the “Novem Jevaan”, after the programme. There were several games, spot games and prizes for children of all ages and for adults too. Popular songs were sung by solo performers and a housie game was conducted. The entertainment programme was enjoyed by all. The vote of thanks was delivered by Aishal D'Souza.
This was followed by the deliciously prepared “Novem Jevaan” by Venus Restaurant, Ras Al Khaimah, and was served in traditional Mangalorean style. The Community sang “Lavdate” after lunch.
The RAK Konkani Community enjoyed partaking of this rare occasion as one family!