Nativity Fest: Konkani Kutam Rome

Media Release

Rome, Sep 20: Our Konkani Kutam in Rome celebrated the Feast of the Nativity of Our Lady, Monti Fest on Sunday 19th of September at the Capuchin Generalate, 70, Via Piamonte Rome. The celebrations commenced with a procession and the singing of traditional Konkani hymns and every one devotionally offered flowers to the Blessed Mother. This was followed by the blessing of the new grain of rice brought from India. Fr Eugene Lobo S J did the Blessing. Then we had the solemn High Mass in Konkani.  Fr. Denis Veigas OFM Cap was the Main celebrant and the preacher of the day. In his homily he gave the history of the feast of the nativity and how it came to be celebrated in Mangalore even during the time of Tippu Persecutions. Miss Nancy Pinto and Fr Jeevan guided the singing during the mass. Fr. Mark D’Souza OFM Cap did all the necessary arrangements at the Generalate.

Soon after the Mass the entire group assembled in the Hall to share the newly blessed rice grains and for the common family meal. Fr General of the Capuchins was the Guest of Honour.  Hilary Crasta welcomed the gathering and introduced the new members of the Konkani Kutam of Rome. He explained how important this celebration is to us and how every year we come together as a family. 

In his address Fr General expressed his happiness over the traditional meeting of the Mangaloreans in Rome and how glad he is to welcome all Mangaloreans into their Residence. Fr. Elias Frank gave the message of the day and explained the spiritual and religious meaning of the celebration.  Fr. Eugene Lobo who was the master of ceremonies did the vote of thanks expressing gratitude to all who in large or small ways contributed to the organisation, both spiritual and general celebration. He particularly thanked all persons who contributed in different ways in the organisation of the programme and the mass.  He thanked those who in a quiet way prepared the meal for the family.  This was followed by the festive meal which included the traditional vegetables, lathad, rice and vorne.  This was indeed a happy family gathering where nearly seventy persons were present.