Pics: Ronald Fernandes, Wilson D’souza

Bahrain, Sep 18: Marked by the abundance of tender flowers, succulent sugarcane and sprigs of paddy, ‘Monti Fest’ is accompanied by the community gathering to celebrate the birthday of Mary, the mother of Christ.

As every other year, this year too, Bellevision Bahrain celebrated the Feast of Nativity of our Blessed Virgin Mary with zeal and enthusiasm at Papillon Restaurant on Friday September 14.

MC Rony Pinto kicked off the afternoon by welcoming the gathering and explaining the importance of the day. The festivity commenced with a meaningful prayer by Rony Alva and family.

Ivan Sequeira in his presidential speech welcomed the gathering and thanked everyone for their presence, while appreciating and being obliged for the efforts and support of the members. He also expressed his gratitude to Fr Clement Mascarenhas parish priest Moodubelle and Fr Darel Fernandes, assistant parish priest, Kingdom of Bahrain for gracing the occasion.

Children expressed their love and devotion to infant Mary by offering flowers, while Fr Darel led the prayer. The new rice stalks adorned the devoutly decorated statue of infant Mary.

All savored the 'Novem in Roce' along with cake.

Fr Clement addressed the gathering, stressing the importance and role of a woman in a family, in the light of Mother Mary’s life and also expressed his delight seeing the unity between the members.

The crowd had a wonderful afternoon cheering the young talents of Alec, Alisha, Delisha, Erina, Reeve, Ries, Rochelle, Nikita, Shanelle and Thomas. Spot games kept the crowd cheering and enthusiastic. Kids were gifted with a holy rosary and chocolates along with sugarcane. Birthday celebrants of the day celebrated by cutting the cake. The melodious music by DJ Alwyn added to the festive atmosphere.

Fr Darel offered grace before meal. All enjoyed the harvest meal served on banana leaves.

Marita Aranha, general secretary delivered the vote of thanks, appreciating the efforts that went into organizing the event, well-coordinated time and overall success of the event. Registration counter was well handled by Lavina Mendonca and Veera Noronha.

BV Bahrain, executive committee always remains grateful to the support of its sponsors and well-wishers along with its members, who worked selflessly for the success of the celebrations and for their generous contribution toward this celebration.

Each time her birthday is celebrated, the importance of a family is recognized and confidently the hope for an increase of peace in the hearts and in the world at large is looked forward to. May the celebration of Our Lady's Nativity help us to further unite ourselves with Christ.