Daijiworld News Network - Abu Dhabi (OD)
Abu Dhabi – 07 Sept. 2006 – Konkani speaking Catholic community of Abu Dhabi celebrated the Feast of Nativity (Monthi Fest) with traditional fervor and solemnity at St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Abu Dhabi on Thursday 7th September 2006 evening.
The outdoor celebration began at 7.45 pm. with the offering of flowers to Mother Mary by the little children and teenagers in front of the Church Grotto, followed by blessing of the new corn which was flown-in from Mangalore and a procession carrying Mother Mary's statue bedecked with flowers around the church premises. The Holy was Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Antony Lopez - Secretary to the Bishop of Vicariate of Arabia.
The melodious Konkani Choir lead by Leena Fernandes enhanced the spirit of the devotees and the solemnity of the occasion.
Thousands of devotees participated in the celebration bringing back the sweet memories of celebration back home.
In his vote of thanks Michael D'Silva - President of K.C.O. thanked the donors, ushers, choir members and the people who were instrumental in making the occasion meaningful and a successful celebration.
The Blessed corn was distributed to the families at the end of the solemn ceremony.
As per their tradition followed since several years, K.C.O. (Konkani Cultural Organization) distributed light refreshments to all participants after the Mass.