by Cicilia D`Sa
Dubai, Sep 18: Udyavarites have celebrated Nativity of Mother Mary more popularly known as “Monthi Saibinnechem Fest” on Friday 15 September 2006 at Arabian Beach Hotel – Sharjah.
The programme commenced around 1215 with a warm welcome by Master of Ceremony – Robert Fernandes.
All joined in with the Committee Members to sing the hymn in honour of the Patron Saint of Udyavara – Amchea San-Francis-ka-Savera. Ms Vinita Fernandes did a reading from the Bible.
President Gerald Pereira thanked the guest for accepting the invitation and their presence in the celebration.
Gerald Pereira presented a momento and draped a shawl as a mark of respect to the guest of honour Fr. Richard A. Coelho – Parish Priest of Udyavara who at present is on a visit to Dubai.
The Priest was very pleased to see the UDYAVARITES organising such traditional events in Dubai. In his speech, The Priest said he is humbled by the love and support shown by the people of Udyavarites and thanked the committee members for enormous efforts to make this occasion a great success.
He gave the guest a brief insight of the achievements of Udyavara Church and the School Project.
Children were in high spirits and enjoyed the ritual offering of flowers to Mother Mary when the ‘Sakkad Sangatha Melyam’ and ‘Mariek Hogolsiya’ hymns were sung.
Fr. Coelho blessed the Novem (corn mixed with milk) and ended the spiritual session with a small significant prayer. The Blessed Novem was distributed to all guests.
Committee members organized the fancy dress competition for kids. Kids gave their best performance on stage in front of the guest and judges ie: Fr. Richard Coelho, Carol Pinto and Philip Corda.
Arabian Beach Hotel displayed an aromatic buffet of vegetarian delicacies including the ‘Fish curry’ and ‘worn’ well arranged by Donald Machado.
Lively dance and Comedy skits performed by Udyavarites kept the audience entertained in splits of laughter. Lots of opportunities were available to win spot prizes.
Housie – the game that young and old enjoy the most was conducted by Raphael D’Souza. Winners were rewarded with attractive prizes.
Rohan Suares proposed the vote of thanks to guest’s, participants and members who actively and whole heartedly participated in making this day a great success in every way.
Baila Dance accompanied with live music by the popular and dashing Viva-Goa fame – Johny and dance performance by young artiste entertained the crowd and kept them on their feet.
Befitting finale ended at 1745 hrs.
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