Media Release
Abu Dhabi, Feb 27: The Konkani Prayer Group (KPG) of St Joseph’s Cathedral, Abu Dhabi, celebrated its silver jubilee with great enthusiasm, marking 25 years of faith, fellowship, and spiritual enrichment. The grand event was attended by a large congregation, including past and present members, clergy, and well-wishers, making it a truly memorable event.
A Journey of Faith and Dedication
KPG was founded on February 18, 2000, under the guidance of Fr Eugene Mattioli OFM Cap, with the support of 18 dedicated members of the Konkani-speaking community. Over the past 25 years, the group has flourished into a vibrant spiritual group, conducting weekly prayer meetings, intercessory prayers, Eucharistic Adoration, and actively contributing to the parish’s activities.
The silver jubilee celebration was meticulously planned over months, with multiple competitions and events leading up to it, including Bible quizzes, singing, skits, and speech competitions, engaging members across different age groups.
Thanksgiving Mass and Dignitary Felicitations
The celebrations commenced with a solemn thanksgiving Mass, presided over by KPG’s spiritual director, Fr Mariyan Miranda OFM Cap. The homily was delivered by Fr Maxim Cardoza OFM Cap, the parish priest of St Paul’s Church, Mussafah. The Mass was concelebrated by esteemed priests, including the parish priest of St Joseph’s Cathedral, Fr Chito Bunda Bartolo OFM Cap, Fr Valerian Fernandes OFM Cap, chancellor & judicial vicar of AVOSA, Fr John Bosco Mosha OFM Cap, and Fr Vincent, a visiting priest from Chikmagalur diocese.
A highlight of the Mass was the grand choir, led by Jeevan Lobo, the choir master with a 70-member choir team, enhancing the solemnity of the celebration through melodious hymns. The theme song ‘Sombhrom’, composed by Rupert Vaz, the KPG member, with music by Rayan Vaz, and was beautifully sung by the melodious choir, setting the tone for the jubilee celebration.
After the Mass, the master of ceremonies, Deral Menezes, and Blandina D’Cunha warmly welcomed the gathering. The dignitaries, including the clergy and St Joseph’s Konkani Community (SJKC) president John Conrad D’Souza, were felicitated with flower bouquets by the KPG core team. A symbolic jubilee cake was cut by the dignitaries and the core team, and cake and juice were distributed to all gathered for the jubilee celebration.
Unveiling the Souvenir and Recognizing Contributions
A special silver jubilee souvenir, chronicling KPG’s 25-year journey, was presented by editor Jessy Correa and inaugurated by Fr Maxim Cardoza OFM Cap. The event also included a report by KPG coordinator Naveen Menezes, who highlighted the group’s spiritual journey and its impact on the community. Fr Mariyan Miranda OFM Cap, shared his heartfelt message, emphasizing KPG’s role in fostering faith and unity.
The founding members Noel Rodrigues, Egbert Pinto, Rohan Correa, and Marina D’Souza were honoured with mementos and flowers, with Egbert Pinto speaking on their behalf. Past and present KPG coordinators were also recognized for their invaluable contributions.
Competitions, Cultural Performances, and Entertainment
As part of the silver jubilee, various competitions were held in the preceding months, including a logo design contest, hymn singing competition for different age groups, a skit competition based on parables, a fancy-dress contest for children portraying saints, and a speech competition based on the catechism of the Catholic Church. The winners were felicitated with trophies and awards during the event.
The cultural segment of the evening showcased a delightful array of performances, including a fusion dance by children, teenagers, and women of KPG. The congregation joined in singing the hymn ‘Havenu Shalom Alekum’, creating a joyous atmosphere. A humorous Konkani drama, ‘Sezari’, written by Bernard J D’Costa and directed by Ivan Almeida, captivated the audience with its wit and engaging performances by KPG members John Conrad D’Souza, Neil D’Cunha, Flavia Crasta, Sharmila D’Souza, Jayprakash Martis, and Ovin D’Cunha.
A Grand Finale with Fellowship and Celebration
Core team member and music ministry leader Rohan Correa delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the priests, sponsors, volunteers, and all attendees. Fr Mariyan Miranda OFM Cap, led the gathering in grace before the meal, after which a sumptuous buffet dinner was served to everyone, nearly 1,000 attendees. The evening continued with music, songs, and entertainment by KPG members. The entire event was wonderfully supported by the sound, lighting, and stage arrangements by Joel Crasta and his Broadway Events Management team, Abu Dhabi.
The silver jubilee celebration of KPG was a testament to the unwavering faith and commitment of its members, reflecting 25 years of spiritual growth and community bonding. With renewed enthusiasm, KPG looks forward to continuing its mission of faith, service, and unity in the years to come.