Media Release
Dubai, Sep 10: St Francis Xavier Church community of Ferar came together in a spirit of unity and togetherness to celebrate Monthi Fest on September 8, the Nativity of Mother Mary, with family and friends. More than 120 parishioners and guests attended the festive event at Smana Hotel in Burdubai.
The celebration commenced with an introduction and prayer by Norbert Sequeira. Special guest, assistant parish priest of St Mary's Church, Dubai, Fr Victor Fernades, expressed his joy at being with parishioners to celebrate the event. One of the directors of Daijiworld Media, Dayan D’Souza, Mukamar, highlighted the importance of Monthi Fest. Joseph Mathias, the managing director of Merit Freight Systems, Dubai, UK & Mangaluru, emphasised the importance of following traditions and preserving Konkani culture and the need to honour mothers.
Under the leadership of the president, Vijay Lawrence Cutinha, the event was a great success. He warmly welcomed the gathering and expressed heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors and well-wishers. He acknowledged their invaluable support for past events and sought their continued support in the future. Announcements were made about upcoming events, such as a throw ball tournament in January 2025. Jenita read the feast message of Ferrer parish priest Fr James D’Souza sent.
The statue of the infant Mary was venerated with flowers, and children participated in the floral showering. Popular hymns 'Sakkad Sangatha Melyan' and 'Morriyek Hogalsiyan' were sung during the flower-strewing ceremony. The Blessed Novem was distributed before serving the food.
Young and energetic duo Merlyn Pinto and Elton D’Souza hosted the event and led fun activities. The talented singer Lancy Noronha captivated the audience with his popular Konkani songs. Dedicated committee members, including Merlyn Pinto, Alwyn Fernandes, Dorin Sequeira, Dony patrick and Prakash Peris, transformed the venue with beautiful decorations centred around the infant Mary's statue. Andrea Fernandes's beautiful dance and Sushmitha Sequeira & team's lively Bollywood medley kept the audience entertained.
A delicious vegetarian lunch (Novem Jhevaan) along with traditional vorn was served.
Roshan Lobo conducted a raffle draw. Our well-wisher, Roshan Mascarenhas sponsored attractive raffle prizes. The programme concluded with a baila dance. A heartfelt thank you was extended to all who helped to make the event unforgettable.