Dubai: On September 14, 2024, the United Loretto Friends (ULF) gathered at Smana Hotel in Burdubai to celebrate Monthi Fest, honoring the Nativity of Mother Mary. The festive event brought together over 125 parishioners and guests in a remarkable display of unity and community spirit.
The United Loretto Friends, commonly known as ‘ULF’, was established in 2019 by a group of like-minded individuals who shared a vision centered on “Unity & Service’’.
The Monthi Fest celebration commenced with a warm welcome from Mr. Donald Noronha, the evening’s Emcee. Delightful children participated in a charming procession, encircling the beautifully adorned statue of Monti Saibin (Infant Mary) with flowers. Mrs. Jevita Rodrigues led the group in prayer, creating a spiritually uplifting atmosphere as attendees sang traditional hymns, including “Sokkod Sangatha Meliya” and “Moriek Hogolsia.” The children joyfully presented flowers to the Infant Mary, embodying the festive spirit.
Prior to the stage program, the Blessed Novem was distributed, setting the tone for the evening. Rev. Fr. Victor Fernandes OFM CAP, assistant parish priest and Spiritual Director of St. Mary’s Mangalorean Community -SMMC,Dubai, expressed his happiness at joining the ULF for this significant event. Renowned Konkani activist and founder of the Daiji Dubai Writers Forum, Dayan D’Souza Mukamar, spoke passionately about the importance of Monthi Fest, underlining its cultural significance.
Mr. Joseph Mathias, coordinator and member of the SMMC Core Team, as well as the managing director of Merit Freight Systems in Dubai, UK, and Mangaluru, was another distinguished guest at the event. President Mr. Rupesh Pinto extended a warm welcome to all dignitaries and the gathering, while Mr. Lloyd Rodrigues, Secretary (2023-2024), presented a detailed report highlighting ULF’s activities and charitable efforts throughout 2023-2024.In recognition of his relentless dedication to supporting communities across religious and caste lines, Mr. Noel D’Almeida was honored for his invaluable contributions.
Additionally, Mr. Vivian Fernandes and Mrs. Mashrel Cutinho were welcomed as new members of the core committee, alongside the newly elected office bearers for 2024-2025.To further enhance the festivities, Mr. Donald Noronha organized a series of engaging spot games that brought joy and laughter to the attendees. Members of ULF also delighted the audience with a lively dance and skit performance, adding an exhilarating element to the evening. A heartfelt vote of thanks was delivered by Mrs. Gretta Fernandes, a Cultural Secretary.
Guests relished a delicious vegetarian Dinner (Novem Jhevaan), complemented by the traditional dessert, vorn. The celebration culminated in a vibrant baila dance session led by DJ Wilson, encouraging everyone present to join in and create lasting memories. Lovelin Dmello was on hand to capture the essence of the festivities.
Overall, Monthi Fest 2024 was a resounding success, celebrating not just the birth of Holy Mother Mary but also reinforcing the bonds of the Canara Catholic Christian community in the UAE. The event served as a powerful reminder of the enduring faith, unity, and camaraderie that define this vibrant and close-knit community far from home.
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