Pics: Floyd Martis

Thane, Sep 29: In the Catholic tradition, the feast of Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary is traditionally celebrated as Monthi Fest (Feast) and a feast of family by Manglurean Catholics around the world with religious fervor. Monthi Fest was celebrated with joy and vibrancy at St Lawrence Church Wagle Estate too. The main celebrant was Asst Parish Priest Fr Hubert Goveas.

Initiated by Fr Hubert Goveas and assisted by the Konkani Catholic Group under the guidance of Fr Jervis Dsouza, Parish Priest, special mass was organized at 5.30 pm on September 12 in traditional manner. Around 600 people attended the same of all community. It was not a Manglorean feast but Fr Hubert termed it as “Vande Mataram” which meant feast of community.

There was active participation from all religious sects in various committees. Children were trained to walk in procession with flower baskets as followed by beautiful tradition followed by veneration of the Baby Statue of Mary. Offertory consisted of 20 items ranging from fruits to vegetable. New corn was blessed by Fr Jervis Dsouza, Parish Priest and later distributed.

Followed by mass was the “nove jovan” followed by entertainment programme. Around 500 people attended the same where the entertainment lasted for 3 hours. It was a grand celebration to be marked during the celebration of Silver Jubilee this year.