by Raj Francis Periera
London, Sep 8: The Nativity feast ( Monthi Saibinichem Festh) celebrations was celebrated by Richard and Christine Lobo and family consequitively for the 12th year in succesion today at 13:00 hours at the Emglish Martyrs church, Chalkhill, Wembly London.
Dr. Cheryl Lobo welcomed the assemblage and also briefed about the programme of the day. She also gave a brief insight on the theme of the nativity.
Rev. Dr.Pius Fidelis Pinto, the managing trustee of Samanvaya Managlore was the celebrant. He venerated mother Mary along with the children and the assemblage with the hyms "Sakkad Sanagatha Melieam" and "Morie Hogolsieam" followed by the Eucharistic Celebrations. Rev.Dr. Pius Fidelis Pinto thanked Richard Lobo and family for being an instrument of gathering Konkani Catholics in and around London for the last 12 years. It is indeed an selfless effort that we all need to recognize he said.
The first reading was read by Dr. Cheryl Lobo and the second by Keith Lobo. This was followed by the homily by Rev.Dr.Pius Fidelis Pinto. He explained the historical data and developements of the feast of Nativity in a historical prospective and in a scholarly manner. He stressed the need for a family spirit and the respect for the tradition which has been handed down for centuries. The choir uplifted the spirit by the melodious singing by the Choir team - Pramila Crasta and team members.
The prayer of the faithful were prayed by Violet, Arun, Helen, Francis, Mary, Juliet , Jacintha and Charlie. The holy mass was followed by a family get to gather in the parish hall. Rev.Dr. Pius Fidelis Pinto led a short prayer and the "Novem" was served to all the members followed by the delicious lunch. There were 267 members who participated in the celebration. The programme concluded by singing the laudate.