Media Release
Chicago, Apr 14: The Mangalorean Konkan Christians Association celebrated Easter Celebrations with Easter Vigil and Holy Mass along with Konkani hymns sung by the MKCA, choir. All the guests were received with great smile from reception in-charge Mercy Concesso. Fr. Richard Vaz and Fr. Henry Sequeira celebrated the Holy Mass. Mass was initiated with burning of incense and lighting of Easter Candle. There was also blessing of Holy Water. The five readings during the Mass was read by the Youth Committee members of MKCA. Although Mass was little long, the worshippers witnessing this holy ceremony were enthused with renowned spirit to hear the creation of the universe by the Lord Almighty.
The Homily given by Fr. Henry projected the changing colors of American Family system and their changing values. He presented a straight heart-to-heart discussion of once cravings for joy and happiness and total lack of understanding towards pains that we need to internalize and process. He stated that without carrying that pain or of cross, we cannot move towards an understanding of eternal glory or be one with Jesus Christ. He said by carrying those crosses with courage and humility one can achieve eternal happiness and this is essential for a meaningful life. He stated that this is what Jesus Christ professed and he suffered the most humility of the times in order to resurrect the Human Race. At the end of the Mass, Fr. Richie and Fr. Henry wished the devotees a Happy Easter
The devotees gathered were inspired by the Alter décor and the overall decorations of the Hall, which was arranged by Jossie Mendonca and others. With the conclusion of the Holy Mass, the President of MKCA, Lawrence Mascarenhas, welcomed all the members, guests and well-wishers gathered in big numbers. He introduced the Youth Committee representative Angel D’Souza to the audience and informed the attendees about their future plans in involving the youth in cultural programs of MKCA. He then, called the Special General Body meeting to order and called upon Stany D’Souza, to convene ratification of constitutional changes. Once the constitutional changes were presented to the body, all the members presented unanimously accepted to the changes made to the constitution. With the ratification of the constitutional amendments, the Special General Body Meeting was adjourned.
Austin D’Souza Prabhu introduced the “Voice of MKCA” an E-bulletin which was formally inaugurated by the MKCA president Lawrence Mascarenhas. The first issue of the E-bulletin was presented to the audience by a slide show.
All the participants savored the typical Mangalorean style snacks of Samosa and Chicken Thicka. There was open bar to enjoy the Easter spirit arranged by Jossie Mendonca. The compeer, Austin D’Souza Prabhu introduced himself to the crowd and called upon Nisha Baretto to initiate the social program. Children were thrilled to participate in the unique Easter Egg Hunt. All of them were victorious to find the hidden treasures of Easter Eggs.
This was followed by the majestic arrival of Easter Bunny. All children were thrilled to see the Easter Bunny waving at them and their eyes were sparkling with joy to receive Eater Gift from the Easter Bunny, presented by Atina D’Souza. It was a beautiful sight to see the children hugging their Easter gifts and showcasing them to each others.
All the participants’ taste buds were quite active when the compeer announced that the Mangalorean style dinner with Dukra (pork) maas (meat) is ready. The participants really enjoyed the great taste of variety of menu items and desert (Kulfi). Dukra maas was specially prepared for this Easter Fest by Mercy Concesso. All the participants enjoyed their dinner and drinks and thanked the organizers for such a wonderful presentation.
During the Dinner time, there was a wonderful Baila program presented by a talented musician Darrel Mascarenhas. Ligory Martis, Alphonce Mascarenhas, Jossie Mendonca and some of the young and old from the audience joined the singing. Darrel also sung some wonderful English scores which were applauded loudly by the audience.
The formal program was officially concluded with Vote of Thanks given by the Chairperson of the program, Eric Fernandes. He thanked all the committee members and guests for their wonderful contribution in the success of this program. He invited the guests to join MKCA and strengthen it further to showcase the Mangalorean Konkan culture. As usual all the members present sang “Loudate Dominum”
This program was concluded with big-bang by guests running to the dance floor to swing their steps to their favorite dance numbers, which were presented in Hindi, Konkani, Spanish and English songs by DJ Nil (Anil D’Souza).