Monthi Fest - Corpus Christi Church, Moodbidri Town

News: John Menezes, Moodbidri
Pics: Sunil, Alpha Studio, Moodbidri & Vincent Mascarenhas
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore

Mangalore, Sep 8: The Monthi Fest celebration began with the message and prayer at the Navjeeth Centre near Moodbidri city bus stand, where children and adults gathered with flowers. The parish priest Fr Austin Peter Peres and Fr Maxim Noronha, Diocesan Procurator lead the prayers.

The procession was lead by the band to the church.

Mass was celebrated by Fr Austin Peter Peres and concelebrated by Fr Maxim Noronha.

The hymns, responses as well as the Mass readings were displayed on the LCD screen making it very convenient for the large congregation to participate in the mass actively. It is for the first time in the history of Mangalore Diocese that LCD facility was used inside the church during the Mass.

The entire Mass was telecast live on the LCD screen in the portico of the Church.

The homily was preached by Fr Maxim Noronha. He said it was a triple celebration - birth of Virgin Mary, family unity and Thanksgiving to God for the food grain and fruits He provides for us.

He quoted Swami Vivekanada who was born to his parents after eight years of prayers and sacrifices, Neil Armstrong stepping on the moon and Mother Mary who was born to St Joachim and Anna at a later stage of their life. "Their small step later became a big help to mankind. Let us take Mary’s guidance and unite with our families today, throwing out all the anger, thanking God for giving us Heavenly mother and the food grains that God provided us," he said.

The Mass ended with thanksgiving to all concerned and distribution of prizes for winners of the games conducted on the Fest eve.

New corn and sugarcane were distributed to all.