Stanley D’Cruz
Daijiworld Media Network—Sydney
Sydney, Sep 19: On a beautiful spring Sunday of September 11, a large number of Mangalurean Sydneysiders and their friends celebrated Nativity Feast (Monti Fest) organized by the Mangalorean Catholic Association of Sydney Inc (MCAS). The venue was the spacious Roselea Community Hall at Carlingford. The altar and the statue of Mother Mary were elegantly decorated with flowers. The feast commenced with celebration of the holy mass by Fr Prakash Coutinha, parish priest from Northcote parish, Melbourne.
Neil Mascarenhas and Joylene Moras led an excellent choir for the mass with a good mix of Konkani hymns. In his homily Fr Prakash dwelt on the importance of the baby girl, a mother, the role of Mother Mary and the grace of the new harvest in our lives. His sermon was well received and complimented by the attendees.
The celebrations commenced with the introduction of the two MCs Onita Saldanha and Swathi D’Souza. Children showered flowers on Mother Mary’s statue, the tradition that is still followed all over the world. Many attendees joined in the singing of the traditional hymn Sakkad Sangatha Melaon. The statue was decorated with traditional sugar cane, palm leaves and flowers.
The official function commenced with president Hubert Castelino welcoming the large gathering of members, families, visiting parents and friends. He spoke on how Nativity Feast forms a strong bond for Mangalureans in all parts of the world and how they look forward to celebrate this occasion with family and friends. Hubert also welcomed the dignitaries who included, Kevin Conolly, MP, David Clarke MLC and Marisa Clarke and Vanlalvawna, Consul General of India and Rosy Lal Khuma.
Hubert then introduced Stanley D’Cruz as the architect of MCAS and the other committee members Valentina Fernandis vice president, Dolphie Mascarenhas, general secretary, Cyril D’Silva, treasurer, Joylene Moras, social secretary, Glen Rego, youth coordinator and executive members Delsey Moras, Richard Rebello and Melissa Gojer.
Entertainment followed soon after and this was superbly complimented by music played by Alfred D'Souza. The highlight of the celebrations was the performance of a Mangalurean folk dance choreographed by Delsy Moras. Three groups of couples Glen and Olma Rego, Joylene and Melissa Gojer and Anil Mendonsa and Ria Lewis participated in this enthralling dance, which was well applauded by the audience. The other cultural component was a Konkani skit. Richard and Reon Rebello, the father son duo and Joylene Moras performed this skit. This skit too was very comical and was much appreciated by the audience.
An excellent and traditional Mangalurean cuisine buffet luncheon cooked by the MCAS chefs was then served. The menu consisted of assorted entrees, baffat pork, chicken curry, sannas, rice, beans, channa, salad and vorne. Several MCAS volunteers worked non-stop to manage and serve the luncheon. A beautiful Nativity cake was also baked for the occasion. As there are too many names to mention, MCAS thanks them immensely for their dedication and support.
Music continued and the members continued dancing on the floor and enjoyed themselves. There was a lively spirited and fun-filled environment. The crowd was entertained with Konkani baila and other music. Other activities included a raffle draw and Housie. Prizes were also presented to the best-dressed gentleman, lady, boy and girl. The two MCs Onita and Swathi conducted the event in an excellent manner. Adrian Pinto beautifully captured the memories of the event.
Overall, the MCAS Nativity Feast celebration was an outstanding success and MCAS members and their friends are thanked for their attendance and patronage.