by Joseph D`Souza, Katipalla / Israel

Bethlehem, Israel, Nov 23: Konkani-speakers are spread all over the world. Perhaps there are a very few countries in the world where Konkani is never heard.

Israel is the latest country to be talked about in relation to Konkani language. Many Konkani-speaking people specially hailing from Goa and Mangalore have been residing here. Thier love for Konkani must be appreciated by the Konkani-speaking community elsewhere.

Now, to bring more members of the Konkani-speaking community under one umbrella, for the first time, a Konkani retreat is being organised here.

Fr Alban D'Souza from Pakshikere church, Mangalore has already arrived here at the invitation of the organizers here. He is being assisted by Bro Prakash Dsouza, Rony Pais and Naveen Pais.

Prior to the retreat, prayers, Mass, confessions and counselling will be held from November 21, 2006. The retreat will also begin on November 21, 2006 in Bethlehem Church.