Media Release

Abu Dhabi, Sep 15: The Konkani Community of St John the Baptist Catholic Church, Al Dhannah, celebrated the traditional Nativity Feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Monthi Fest) with immense devotion and joy on Friday, September 11.

The celebration commenced at the church grotto, where devotees gathered with baskets of vibrant fresh blooms. Fr Darick Paul D'Souza, OFM Cap, led the ceremonial blessing of the newly harvested paddy corn and the adoration of Mother Mary.

Amidst traditional Konkani Marian hymns, celebrants joyfully showered petals of chrysanthemums and jasmines at the statue of Infant Mary.

Following the grotto ceremony, a solemn festive procession led the faithful into the church for the concelebrated Eucharistic celebration. In his touching homily, Fr Darick emphasised the irreplaceable, nurturing role mothers play in holding families together through sacrifice and love. The choir elevated the solemnity of the service, keeping the congregation prayerfully engaged throughout the Mass.

As the liturgical service ended, Fr Joby vengappally OFM cap parish priest addressed the parishioners encouraged them to continue to actively take part of tradition within the wider community.Later the faithful gathered in the parish hall for the traditional family meal, ‘Novem Jevon’. Blessed grain blended with vorn was served to begin the symbolising oneness and thanksgiving for the harvest. The Al Dhannah Konkani community ladies lovingly prepared an authentic spread of traditional vegetarian delicacies, Mangalorean style.

Al Dhannah is a community situated approximately 240 km from UAE’s capital Abu Dhabi, and is home to a small community of Mangalorean Catholics who are part of the St John the Baptist Catholic Church parish which is headed by Parish Priest Fr Joby Vengappally OFM Cap. The gathering was a testament to the close-knit bond among families and bachelors far away from their homeland, preserving their heritage across generations.