Media Release
Dubai, Sep 12: The celebration of Monti Festh by Jebel Ali Konkani Community (JAKC), began with the 9 days Novena from August 28 to September 5.
The 9 days Novena, had children as an integral part of the liturgy and the Novena. It was truly a delight to witness children in the Gulf, reading and singing in Konkani.
The feast of Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mary, was celebrated with great fervour on the September 6. Festivities began with showering of flowers in portico of the church between 7:30 and 7:40 pm, with the festive high mass at 8 pm. The community was blessed to have the presence of Fr Naveen D’Souza OFM Cap., who was the main Celebrant. Fr Rohan Miranda and Fr Jovin Sequeira were the concelebrants, joined by clergy of the parish Fr Roy Clarence, Fr Anoop Paulose and Fr Victor Garcia.
Clement Wilson Lobo, co-ordinator of JAKC, proposed a vote of thanks.
The community then, joined together in the portico for the festive community meal – ‘Novem Jevan’ which was traditionally prepared by Canara Restaurant, Al Karama, Dubai.
The celebrations, saw over 2500 Konkani Catholics in attendance and it truly resonates the spirit of JAKC- as one large “Konkan Kutam” in Dubai.
The highlights of the festivities can also be viewed on Youtube via:
https://youtu.be/o_9En_zYmzk?si=wNtbFqD-8RGxgaFx