Media Release
Mumbai, Sep 13: The Konkani speaking parishioners of St Francis Xavier’s Church, Vile Parle (W) celebrated Monti Fest on September 11. Almost 250 parishioners offered flowers to Mother Mary and participated in the grand celebration.
Leading up to the day of the feast, a 9-day novena was held from August 30 to September 7. Fr Savio and Fr Ignatius led the community in prayer throughout the nine days of the novena.
The grand celebration started with Mass by Fr Savio and showering of flowers by children at the statue of Mother Mary. Fr Savio led the prayer ceremony and the children showered flowers to Mother Mary to the tune 'Moriyek Hogollsiyan'. The traditional 'Khanshi' was blessed at the statue. James and Lily lad the choir during the Holy Mass. After the Holy Mass, cake and juice were distributed to the gathering. Meanwhile, the stage was set for the much awaited cultural programme.
The cultural programme started with a welcome dance by Konkani Speaking Group consisting of Celine Pinto, Cecilia, Monica, Lilly, Nancy and Sheena.
The short stage programme conducted by the Konkani Speaking Group saw felicitation to the priests and the nuns - both from Missionaries of Charity and nuns from St Joseph of Tarbes.
The committee also recognized and honored Celine Pinto who served selflessly for the cause of the church and the Konkani community and still continues to do so.
Konkani Speaking Group coordinator Celine Pinto welcomed everyone on behalf of the committee. Parish priest Fr Savio blessed the new corn mixed in milk and the same was distributed to the gathering. He delivered a short message on the occasion. Fr Savio in his speech thanked everyone who contributed towards the success of the feast.
The cultural programme continued thereafter and consisted of some amazing performances which kept the audience thoroughly entertained. Apart from the welcome dance, the crowd was entertained by two skits and children’s fancy dress competition. Eden Martins and her brother Fraxier Martins entertained the crowd with their singing.
The cultural programme was ably compered by the well-known Cyril Castelino from Malad.
While Celine Pinto organized the event, Ronnie Mathias coordinated with various people to ensure the success. Nancy Martins gave the vote of thanks.
The evening ended with a housie game followed by sumptuous buffet dinner of traditional 'Novem Jevan' and everyone went home with fond memories of a grand celebration.