Abu Dhabi: St Joseph’s Konkani Community (SJKC) celebrated Christmas Celebration in a very grand and memorable way on 16 Dec 2023 in Bishop Paul Hinder Memorial Hall in St Joseph’s Cathedral Abu Dhabi. The celebrations commenced with the Holy Mass celebrated by the Spiritual Director of SJKC Rev. Fr Marian Miranda OFM Cap. After Holy Mass, the program compered by Deral Menezes in a beautiful manner engaged the entire crowd with numerous games.
SJKC Coordinator Conrad D’Souza welcomed the gathering and the celebrations began with a prayer song and dance performed by Nishel Lobo, Shanal Lobo, Reyona Fernandes and Reyora Fernandes.
The Christmas Tree lighting was done by the Parish Priest Rev. Fr Chito Bartolo OFM Cap., in the presence of Fr Marian Miranda OFM Cap., and the Parish Council Vice President Roydon D’Mello. The Parish Priest Rev. Fr Chito Bartolo OFM Cap in his message thanked the SJKC’s role in the parish expressing his gratitude and wished everyone a Happy Christmas to come. Rev. Fr Marian Miranda OFM Cap too gave a message for the community inviting the leaders to be a sign and witness to our community while rendering our service.
Konkani Prayer Group representatives Darel Menezes and Flavia; Mangalorean and Goan Konkani choir representatives Maxim and Janice; Goencho Konso representatives, Austin Menezes and Shirwina Sequeira and the ‘I’ phone 15 stall members Lancy D’Souza, Priya Dias and Laveena Lobo were felicitated at the program for their wonderful service at the stalls on the occasion of Christmas Bazaar.
This was followed by carol singing by the choir and the much-awaited entry of Santa who gave gifts to the children to their delight.
A Vote of Thanks was rendered by the SJKC Secretary Chrysil D’Mello. The celebration concluded with a joyful note with the distribution of traditional kuswar to all the community members.
