Report by Clarence Pinto
Photographs : Dilip Correa
for Daijiworld News Network - Oman

Muscat, Dec 4: Goan Konkani-speaking community of Sts Peter and Paul Church, Ruwi celebrated the annual feast of St Francis Xavier on December 3 at the main parish hall.

On Friday, December 1, a High Mass was celebrated at in Sts Peter & Paul Church - Ruwi by the whole Konkani Speaking Community of the parish. Fr. Albert D Silva, Cap. of Ruwi Church and Fr Felix Ferrao of Sts Anthony’s Church, Sohar were the celebrants. Whole Konkani community of the parish was actively participated in this event.

The cultural celebrations were looked after by the St Francis Xavier feast organizing committee, headed by Celso Fernandes on December 3 in the main parish hall.

The parish hall was well decorated and Goan community members gathered with smiles on their faces and dressed om perfect festive attire. Neil Gois and Krystal Ann De Souza were the anchors for the evening.

Fr Albert D’ Silva OFM cap offered opening prayers and invoked blessings on the Goan community. Fr Geoge Vadakkut OFM cap and Celso Fernandes, a well-known Konkani activist and current Vice President of Sts Peter and Paul Church pastoral council were present.

Sri Lankan Airlines was the main sponsor of the celebrations and its Muscat official Anthony Senani was present as guest of honor.

A festive cake was cut by community members who spent over 26 years' stay in the Sultanate of Oman. Prizes were presented to three couples, and the prizes were sponsored by Majan International Hotel.

Children were given a chance to cut the cake with their parents and they were also given prizes.

“Go Africa”, a renowned music band of Muscat, presented some finest music which put the audience into a celebrating mood. After the grand march, dance numbers were also played.

The music was relished by all participants. A variety of games, spot prizes etc. added further fun to the celebration. The event ended with a traditional dinner.