Kuwait: Monti Celebrations by Abbasiya Family
Report & pics by Wilson and Priya  Saldanha Shirthady/Kuwait

Kuwait,Sep 12: Abbasiya Families Kuwait celebrated the feast of nativity on Friday 12th September 2008 at Integrated Indian School.

The program started with general welcome by Ronnie followed by prayer lead by Maxim. The statue of Mother Mary was brought in a procession to the stage with the children carrying fresh flowers along with His Lordship Bishop Camillo Ballin and Fr. Melwyn. Hymns were sung by the choir members Melwin, Francis , Ronnie D`cunha and group .  Glades welcomed the guest and the Bishop along with Fr. Melwyn blessed the grain.

The organizers of the program were felicitatedand  with flowers followed by cutting of cake.  The crowd was served by cake and soft drinks. Glades narrated the achievements of Abassiya families.  The Bishop in his speech wished all a Happy Feast and was pleased to see such a large crowd of Catholics residing in Abbasiya and their unity in making this event successful. Fr. Melwyn delivered his speech in Konkani and also appreciated the hard work of the volunteers who have taken great pains to unite the Catholics especially to celebrate this feast as one family.   Bishop Camillo Ballin, Fr. Melwyn, Joseph, Fr. Albert, Sr. Carmel Ann and Sr. sarina were present on the dais.
There were a row of entetinement programs like the dances, hymns, jokes, Purcusiion band, Surname Litany while the guests were served the traditional feast dinner. Various hymms were sung by the Choir group.  The grace before meal was conducted by Sr. Carmel Ann.  Fr. Melwyn traditionally invited everyone for dinner with water pot.  Benna Pojir delivered the vote of thanks.

The program was mainly sponsored by Monthu- Shammi Furtado, Leslie- Bina Mendonca, Mark- Ashwini D’souza.  The well arranged program was compered by Ronnie, Janice, Jassica and Lavina.  More than 1,000 people attended the program witnessing the unity of Abbassiya Families giving a clear message that making association is not the only way to bring the communities for any celebrations.

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