By Victor Sequeira

Boston, Sep 14: Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary on her nativity - Monthi Fest - and the harvesting of crops after Monsoon holds great significance for Mangalorian Catholic families throughout the world. This feast was duly solemnized on Sunday, September 8  at St Mary’s Church, Chelmsford, Boston MA.

A large number of Konkani speaking families and their friends from New England, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and other far off places, assembled to honor the Blessed Mother. The celebration commenced at the Marian Grotto with an invocation and a prayer. Then all joined in the singing of the traditional lyric, “Sokkod Sangatha Melya … Moriyek Hogolsiam," while children showered the flowers at the statue of Infant Mary. People then processed to the Church where a sung Holy Mass in Konkani was celebrated.

The presider for the Mass was Dr Maurice D’Souza, CSC. In his homily Dr D’Souza emphasized that devotion to the Mother of Jesus held the Catholic families together. Such Marian devotions have drawn children of all ages closer to their spiritual Mother and through her to her Son, Jesus. Traditionally, this feast was indeed a family celebration where all members of the family came together to honor Mary, the first fruit of redemption.

The festive choir which sang traditional Konkani hymns during the Mass was well orchestrated by Harman Mathias and Fredrick Fernandes.

The cultural events included Konkani songs, dances, games and a comedy skit. These were organized by the members of Bellevision, USA under the leadership of its president Victor Sequeira. Everyone enjoyed the fellowship meal (Novem Jevan) which included several types of vegetables along with sannas, pothrade and worn. Courtesy, Francis D’Mello and Stany Ferrao.

Felix Noronha thanked the Pastor of St Mary’s Chruch, Fr Donohoe and the Parochial Vicar Fr Tom Corcoran for their exceptional stewardship and their gracious presence throughout the event. He also thanked every one for making the day a very special one and gratefully acknowledged the efforts of all who dedicated their precious time for preparing the traditional 'Novem Jevan' and thereby honoring their Spiritual Mother.