Praveen Olivera
Dubai, Sep 11: Brahmavar Orthodox Konkani Community (BOKC) of UAE celebrated Monthi Fest on Friday September 6 at Tulip Creek Park Hotel Apartment, Dubai, with much joy and pomp.
The Feast celebration commenced at 11 am with blessing of new corn by Fr V C Jose, followed by floral offerings by the children to the singing of traditional hymn “Sokkod Sangatha Meliam”.
The solemn Feast Mass was celebrated by Fr Jose in Konkani. Fr Jose in his homily reminded the importance of intercession of mother Mary in our daily life. He said often people misunderstand worship and veneration; we venerate and seek her intercession and she will definitely intercede for us.
John Eapen, a senior member of St George Orthodox Cathedral, Abu Dhabi who was also present in his brief address gave instances of miracles occurred through the intercession of mother Mary.
Thomas Suares of BOKC explained the history of celebration of nativity of mother Mary popular as ‘Monthi Fest’ in our region.
After the end of feast mass, 50th birthday of Fr Jose was also celebrated. About 125 BOKC members participated in the programme. All were served with traditional sumptuous vegetarian meal prepared by the members with vorn blended with blessed new corn.
Stephan D'Souza, secretary of BOKC, proposed the vote of thanks and the programme concluded with Laud ate, prayer.