By Jacob Richard Machado -Salalah

Salalah, Sep 15: The Konkani Catholic Community, Church of St.Francis Xavier, Salalah organised the "Monthi Fest " celebration on September 13, 2007.
 
The celebration began with the rosary, after which the congregation moved in a procession towards the Grotto of Mother Mary singing the hymn " Sakkad Sangatha Melyaan.."
 
 The New grains specially bought from Mangalore were blessed. There was jubilation in the air as the children enthusiastically showered flowers to our lady in front of the Grotto as all joined in to sing "Moriyek Hogolsiyan..."
 

The Mass was celebrated in Konkani by Rev. Fr. Cyril Roshan Menezes along with Rev.Fr. Albert D'Silva.The choir led by Victor Moras and Michael Periera gave ample support.It was a  pleasure to have Rev. Fr. Henry Vaz  also joining  the congregation to make the eucharistic celebrations more meaningful and spiritual.Though not a Konkani speaker the Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Raphy Vallacheri gave his full support to the community and was present for the thanksgiving.
 
The Mangalorean Catholic Community and the Goan Catholic Community of Salalah with the co-ordination of Mr. Jacob Richard Machado and Mr. Fausto Fernandes put in efforts to organise the event.

The team comprising of  Reginald Rosario, Tyron Suares, Clement D'souza, Vincent Fernandes, Robert Rego, Lawrence D'souza, Seby D'Silva,Allan D'costa, Melwin D'Melloand  Valerian Rego contributed in making all the required arrangements for the celebration.
 
After the mass a souvenier and the newly blessed grain was distributed.

With the festive atmosphere still in the air there was fellowship among the parishioners as they mingled with each other having recieved a packet of snacks. In short it reminded us of our great tradition which bought the whole community and the families together. Thus, showcasing the culture and inculcating it into our younger generations.

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