Nishel D’Souza

Kuwait, Sep 11: The Konkani community of Our Lady of Arabia, Ahmadi church celebrated the Nativity of Mother Mary on Friday the September 6. The annual event began with a 9-day Novena, celebrated by Fr Anil D'Costa providing an insight on how to build a united family and strengthen faith with prayers and reflection of the Word of God.

Many parishioners along with children attended the nine-day Novenas to honor Mother Mary. The feast mass was celebrated by Fr Anthony Lopez, Fr Nelson Lobo, Fr Avil Rosario and Fr Waldheim Rodrigues.

The festive mass on September 6 with children gathered near the altar dressed in their festive best with colourful flowers arranged on their plates. Procession with beautiful angels and altar servers followed by the priest entered the church. After blessing of new paddy and introductory prayers the children showered flowers on Infant Mary while the choir melodiously sang ‘Moreak Hogolsiya’.

Fr Anil during the Homily stressed on the importance of a strong family bond where elders and youngsters should live in peace and harmony. Unity in the family and community are of the utmost importance which leads to a peaceful coexistence of people, he added. He stressed on the importance of protecting and safeguarding the interests of girl children and ladies in the current changing world. Finally, he concluded saying, "We should follow the footsteps of Mother Mary by praying daily and being empathetic to the needs of people around us."

The Konkani Committee secretary Nishel D’Souza thanked Fr Anil D'Costa and other co-celebrants, and everyone gathered for a successful Monthi Feast mass. Post the celebratory mass and a small adoration, the gathered congregation of more than 800 people participated in the Noven Jevan arranged by the Konkani Committee Ahmadi.

Beautiful memories of the entire event were captured by Allen Cardoza & Salvadore Gonsalves.