Report: Oscar Rego
Pics : Pradeep Arahna Paladka
Dubai, Sep 12: UAE’s St Mary's Welfare Association of Shirva (USWAS) celebrated the Nativity Feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Monthi Fest) at Winchester Hotel, Bur Dubai on Friday September 11 under the leadership of President Herald Mathias.
More than 200 Shirva Parishioners were gathered to celebrate the Monthi fest. Konkanni global award winner MC Lynal D’Souza, the master of the ceremony briefed the gathering about the importance of Monthi Fest. A warm welcome was addressed to the gathering by the President Herald Mathias.
The traditional celebration commenced with a procession headed by CarmineMenezeswho carried the statue of infant Mary and ‘blessed Novem’, which was specially flown from Shirva parish for the occasion. Prayer to worship Mother Mary was led by Diana D’souza and Canute D’souza followed by offering flowers by children, young and elders while singing the hymns 'Sakkad Sangatha Mellyam' and 'Moriyek Hogolsiam'. Blessed Novem mixed in milk was served to all. Children were offered with sweets and gifts.
Merlin Fernandes and BenedictFernandeswho have completed their 50 years of married life (golden wedding anniversay) were honoured and blessed by Herald Mathias, Paul Menezes and Oscar Rego on behalf of USWAS and bouqets were presented to well wishers by Lavina Quadras.
Fr Robert Lasrado priest of St Mary’s Church, Dubai in his message spoke on how Mother Mary had given him success in his life and wished same to all and he praised USWAS unity and efforts of the members who show up in large numbers and support the organization with such a great spirit of love and solidarity.
The cultural programme commenced with a dance performance by Hubin, Sianna, Carin, Riya, Rosita, Prestine, Marsha, Litsa and Cleon also performed a stunning dance. Boskyambyagar group (Sharan D’souza, Manoj Menezes, Diana D’Souza, and Herald Mathias) entertained the crowd with entertaining skits. Band Eagles consisting our USWAS active member and music composer of Yo Moga fame - Prashant Sequeira along with Melwin,Joshal D’Souza, Lanisha and Delisha entertained the crowd with some wonderful Hymns, Konkani songs.
Various spot games and Housie Housie were efficiently conducted for kids and adults by Roshan Menezes. A sumptuous traditional vegetarian meal and vorn was served to all. The programme concluded with grand baila. The gathering made all the Shirva members to feel as a united family yet again.
Note: USWAS future progammes - Blood donation camp on October 16 at Latifa Hospital Dubai, and annual picnic in November 2015.