Ranchi: Kanara-Konkan Catholics Celebrate Monti Fest in Traditional Way

Daijiworld Media Network - Ranchi (SP)

Ranchi, Sep 13: Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand, is a beautiful city. It was the summer capital of the undivided Bihar. The city is rich in Christian faith too. It is home to a large, dedicated Christian population, which is mainly tribal. Nonetheless, Ranchi is a mini-India in itself.

We have a little over 100 Catholics, hailing from the Kanara and Konkan regions. Thursday September 11 was a great day of celebrations at the local Ursuline Convent. About 70 devout Catholics gathered together to celebrate the Monti Fest, the feast of the nativity of Our Lady. We began with the blessing of the Novem (the new corn), which was immediately followed by the offering of flowers to Our Lady. The holy mass was presided over by Fr John Crasta, who is teaching moral theology at St Albert's College here. Fr C R Prabhu, rector of St Albert's College, Fr Vijay Kamath, SJ, spiritual director at St Albert's College, Fr Michael Pereira and Fr Augustine Fernandes, OFM Cap, were the concelebrants. Br Raju Felix Crasta from the diocese of Jamshedpur assisted at the mass and preached a beautiful homily. He emphasized on the fact, that the best way of honouring and venerating Our Lady is to model our Christian life on Her. The choir was led by the students of St Albert's College, which included Brothers and Sisters. Due to the relentless efforts of Brs Thomas D'Souza, Valerian D'Souza, Praveen D'Costa, Sunil Crasta and Ronald D'Souza, the worshipping congregation enjoyed a beautiful choir all through the eucharistic celebration.

After the holy eucharist, all shared the sumptuous meal prepared by different families and convents. The pork was prepared in the genuine Mangalore style, by the Brothers of St Albert's College. All relished the traditional Vorn or payasa. Br Valerian Mendonca, SJ and Fr Michael Pereira organized a few entertaining games and enhanced the joy of all present.

The feast was a grand success, thanks to Sr Bernard D'Sa, OSU (Ursuline Sisters of Tildonk), who skillfully and efficiently organized the celebrations with the help of the others. We specially thank Ms Edwina D'Costa, Mr Jerry and others, who have generously been helping us organize the Monti Fest each year. Finally, it was wonderful to experience that everyone contributed bigheartedly towards the success of the feast. It was decided ,that either St Albert's College or the Sisters of Mary Immaculate (SMI) Convent, Tagore Hill, would host the Monti Fest 2009.   

• Nativity Fest Around the World : Report & Pictures: Click Here