Media Release
Chicago, Dec 20: The Mangalorean Konkan Christian Association (MCKA) celebrated its 20th annual Christmas Celebration at St Hubert’s Church Hall at Hoffman Estates, Illinois. In Konkani language, it is popularly called as Nathal Fest, which celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. Christmas is celebrated by all the Christians worldwide on December 25. There was a general Holy Eucharist, where the MKCA members and guests attended. The first and second readings at the mass were read by the members of MKCA, Sarita D’Souza and Ramona Sequeira.
The cultural programme was initiated by the welcome note from the past president of MKCA, Lancy D’Souza. In his welcome address, he introduced his past executive committee to the audience and recognized their contributions for the success of the programmes conducted. He thanked members and guests for their staunch support in the success of several annual programmes. He introduced the current executive committee to the audience – president: Elroy Alva; vice president: Patcy Lasrado; secretary/treasurer: Savio Pais. He thanked the parish priest, Fr Mike Scherschel and presented a cheque to him for his generosity in providing the venue. The current president Elroy Alva thanked all the attendees present and requested the support and guidance in conducting programmes. He elicited their comments and suggestions in improving the quality of the future programmes. He thanked organizing committee members for their unconditional support in organizing this Nathal Fest.
The compeer of the programme Savio Pais welcomed all the audience to have the appetizers. All of them enjoyed the ethnic appetizers along with Christmas Kuswar.
Patcy Lasrado conducted several group activities for children, couples and adults. The children presented their spirited participation while adults relived their younger age. The members and children present sang Christmas Carols, under the leadership of Concy Mesquita. The grand entry of Santa Claus (Godwin D’Souza) and Santa (Dr Austin Prabhu) thrilled the young children present. Santa and Clause entertained the children present with Christmas gifts. The audience present were excited to take pictures with Santa and Clause.
Savio Pais thanked all the organizing committee for their relentless support in the success of the programme. He recognized the following key members by calling them to the dias: James and Rita Saldanha, Jossie and Queenie Mendonca, Patcy Lasrado, Dr Austin Prabhu, Concy Mesquita and Stany and Vissia D’Souza.
The programme culminated with a sumptuous ethnic dinner. Under effective DJing by Queenie Mendonca, the audience enjoyed the dance to the tunes of Konkani, Hindi, Kannada and Spanish songs.