Media Release
Abu Dhabi, Dec 5: The Konkani community of St Paul’s Catholic Church Mussafah, here, celebrated the fest of St Francis Xavier with great fervor on Saturday December 3. The Holy Mass started at 5.30 pm with a procession carrying the statue of St Francis Xavier in a cradle to the alter by the community members followed by altar Servers, lay ministers and priests.
The main celebrant of the festive mass was Fr Ashok Gonsalves, spiritual director, Konkani communityand co-celebrant Fr Ani Xavier, parish priest. A large crowd of over 400 attended the mass. At the beginning of the mass novena of St Francis Xavier was recited.
Towards the end of the Holy Mass, the gathered were directed to proceed to the basement for a cultural programme followed by a fellowship meal. The masters of ceremony of the evening was Nathaline Goddad and Maria Pereira. The main coordinator of Konkani community Apex Team, Robert Pinto requested Fr Ani Xavier, Fr Eugene, assistant parish priest and Fr Biju, assistant parish priest along with guest of honors Lancy D’Souza, Benny Travasso, Robert D’Souza and Richard Castelino to felicitate and appreciate them for their continued support towards the Konkani community.
The celebration began by the traditional lighting of lamps by Apex team members, priests, guest of honour followed by cutting of the cake. Cake and juice were served to all guests. Fr Ani Xavier spoke and appreciated the unity among the community. Fr Ashok and Fr Eugene spoke on the occasion. They congratulated the members of the community, and appreciated them for their efforts in building a strong spiritual foundation within the community. Lancy D’Souza, Benny Travasso and Richard Castelino also praised the efforts of the young community and appreciated their hard work. In order to start the cultural programme, the MC directed all the priests and guests of honors to their seat.
A welcome prayer dance was performed by the children, followed by a filmy dance. Then a witty comedy skit was performed by Mussafah youngsters, which was enjoyed by all. Thereafter, our little masters performed an eye-catching dance. The classy cultural show of the evening concluded with Mando singing and Baila dance. Spot games were conducted and gifts were distributed to the children in between the programme. Vote of thanks was given by the Apex team members and the MC invited all the people to have a sumptuous dinner and fellowship meal. During the dinner, breathtaking Konkani Baila dance and folklore singing were conducted by the melodious Konkani choir. Fr Ashok Gonsalves concluded the ceremony with a prayer and hymn Argatukasomiya followed by Laudate. It was a fun filled memorable evening for the Konkani community members.