By Vishitha D'Souza

Sydney, Sep 14: The Mangalorean Catholic Association of Sydney (MCAS) celebrated the annual Nativity or Monthi Fest with much solemnity on Saturday September 12 at the Church Auditorium, Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Seven Hills.

Holy mass was co-celebrated by Fr Prakash Coutinha.

Celebrations followed the Holy mass at the Church Auditorium which was attended by over 200 Mangaloreans who came together from all over New South Wales to grace this occasion. The evening started with a short welcome address by Freddie Pereira, MCAS President. The new MCAS executive committee was introduced by the President. Ajith Lobo compered the event. The new harvest or novem was blessed by Fr Prakash. The beautiful tradition of children showering flowers at Mother Mary’s statue followed next. Mother Mary’s statue was decorated with palm leaves and flowers gathered from gardens.

Music and entertainment followed shortly. Two short Konkani skits were performed by Richie Rebello, JoyleneMoras, Jake and Fr Prakash. Skits were well presented and the crowd was roaring with laughter. Many games were conducted for children. All attendees were served with delicious Indian buffet which included sannas, naan, chicken curry, veg korma, beans, chole masala, peas pulao, pickles, rice kheer, snacks with added flavour of home cooked Mangalorean pork bafat.

All attendees were in excellent spirits, there was plenty of Baila, the festive mood was very much evident, and bothJoylene and Darryl kept the crowd on their feet.

For more photographs and event updates, kindly log on to MCAS facebook page. To become a member of the Mangalorean Catholic Association in Sydney kindly contact the General Secretary at info@mcas.org.au.