Media Release
North Brunswick (NJ), Sep 16:
The Mangalorean Catholic Association of the East Coast (MCA-EC) marked its 17th anniversary with a historic and record-breaking turnout for the annual Monthi Fest celebration at Our Lady of Peace Church in North Brunswick, New Jersey. Drawing the largest attendance in MCA-EC history, the event brought together families from across the tri-state area to honour the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary through solemn liturgy, rich cultural traditions, and vibrant community spirit.
Solemn Eucharistic celebration
The festivities commenced with a high solemn Mass. Fr Robert Lasrado served as the main celebrant, while Fr Augustine D'Souza delivered an inspiring homily emphasizing faith, family unity, and gratitude. Deacon Glenn proclaimed the Holy Gospel, and MCA-EC spiritual director Fr Ron Machado guided the liturgical proceedings.
The Eucharist was concelebrated by a distinguished gathering of clergy, including Fr Joseph Kannampally, Fr Joseph Francis, Fr Divya Karunesh, Fr Justin Akkara, Fr Anil D’Sa, and Fr Wency Rodrigues. Warm gratitude was extended to Fr Mike, pastor of Our Lady of Peace Church, for hosting the community.
Soul-stirring choir and liturgical highlights
A major highlight of the holy Mass was the grand performance by the dedicated MCA Choir. Following weeks of intense rehearsals, their soul-stirring harmonies and sacred renditions elevated the spiritual atmosphere.
The liturgy also featured a moving tribute to Infant Mary by the community’s children, youth, and young adults, who performed 'As I Kneel Before You'. MCA-EC gardeners carried forward the fresh fruits of their harvest during the offertory procession, symbolizing thanksgiving for God's abundant blessings, supported by the dedicated team of ushers, lectors, and altar servers.
Feast
Following Mass, children and families gathered to venerate Infant Mary with flowers. Immediately after the blessing of the new corn, guests were served traditional Novem milk—blessed with the newly harvested grain—along with delicious ladoos.
Attendees then proceeded to the church hall for the grand Novem Jovaan. In keeping with authentic Mangalorean tradition, the festive lunch featured a grand spread of nine distinct vegetable dishes, giving everyone a nostalgic taste of home.
Charity and community service impact
In keeping with the true spirit of Monthi Fest as a festival of harvest and sharing, MCA-EC demonstrated profound charity. Community members assembled and delivered 100 blessing bags filled with winter gear directly to the Missionaries of Charity in Newark. Additionally, generous donors contributed non-perishable food items—including rice and canned goods—which were delivered alongside six full trays of festive food to help support families in need.
Inaugural entrepreneur showcase
For the first time in MCA-EC history, the association hosted an entrepreneur showcase, featuring 10 local Mangalorean Catholic entrepreneurs in the church hall. Attendees enthusiastically visited the stalls to support and encourage community members displaying their businesses, products, and services.
Cultural extravaganza, high tea and sugarcane distribution
The afternoon stage came alive with 12 outstanding cultural performances, including four inter-vado acts that united families across different regional sub-groups. Choreographers Arine Aranha and Sonia Cutinho were recognized for organizing practice sessions and choreographing vibrant dances for the kids and teens. The entire afternoon programme was hosted by emcees Shyna Quadras and Arlene Sequeira, who kept the audience engaged with wonderful energy.
Following the cultural performances, guests enjoyed a traditional high tea featuring freshly made Mangalorean delicacies, including crispy goli baje and potato podi. As a final touch of tradition, every guest was presented with fresh sugarcane as a take-home gift.
President’s address and landmark AMCHI 2027 announcement
Addressing the gathering, MCA-EC president Alan D’Souza expressed deep gratitude to the community, clergy, past leaders, and volunteers who made the event a resounding success. He formally recognized the tireless work of his executive board—vice president Cleon, treasurer Santosh, general secretary Arlene, and regional coordinator Shyna—inviting them to stand for community applause. Special thanks were also extended to Gurkars and Gurkarns, DJ Gladson for AV/sound, Chris Monis for event photography, and Violet Monis for her ongoing support.
President Alan D’Souza also announced AMCHI 2027—a landmark National Convention of Mangalorean Catholics across the United States and Canada, scheduled for April 23–25, 2027. Centered on Amcho Bhavadth (Faith), Amchi Saunsakrathi (Culture), and Amcho Ekvot (Unity), the convention will be inaugurated by Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, bishop of Mangaluru.
The memorable day concluded with warm fellowship, marking another glorious chapter in MCA-EC's 17-year journey of connecting people and preserving heritage.