Dubai: UAE’s St. Mary’s Welfare Association of Shirva (USWAS) celebrated the Nativity Feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Monthi Fest) at Winchester Hotel, Bur Dubai on Friday September 11 under the leadership of President Herald Mathias. More than 200 Shirva Parishioners were gathered to celebrate the Monthi fest. Konkanni Global Award winner compere Lynal D’souza, the Master of ceremony briefed the gathering about the importance of Monthi Fest.
A warm welcome was extended to the gathering by the President Herald Mathias. The traditional celebration commenced with a procession headed by Carmine Menezes who carried the statue of Infant Mary and ‘Blessed Novem’, which was specially flown from Shirva parish for the occasion. Prayer to worship Mother Mary was led by Diana D’souza and Canute D’souza followed by offering flowers by children, young and elders while singing the hymns ‘Sakkad Sangatha Mellyam & Moriyek Hogolsiam’. Blessed Novem was served to all. Children were offered with sweets and gifts.
Merlin Fernandes and Benedict Fernandes who have completed their 50 years of married life were honored & blessed by Herald Mathias, Paul Menezes and Oscar Rego on behalf of USWAS. Flower bouqet were presented to well wishers by Lavina Quadras. Fr. Robert Lasrado priest of St. Mary’s Church, Dubai in his message spoke on how Mother Mary gave him success in his life and wished same to all.
The cultural program commenced with a dance performance from Hubin, Sianna, Carin, Riya, Rosita, Prestine, Marsha, Litsa and Cleon also gave stunning dance performance. Boskyambyagar group consisting of Sharan D’souza, Manoj Menezes, Diana D’souza, & Herald Mathias entertained the crowd with humorous skits. Band Eagles & USWAS active member and music composer of Yo Moga fame – Prashant Sequeira along with Melwin, Joshal D’souza, lanisha and Delisha entertained the crowd with some wonderful Hymns and Konkani songs.
Various spot games and Housie Housie were efficiently conducted for kids and adults by Roshan Menezes. A sumptuous traditional vegetarian meal and vorn was served to all. The program concluded with grand baila. The gathering made all the Shirva members to feel as a united family yet again.
USWAS also announced its Future Progammes. A Blood Donation Camp will be organised on 16th October at Latifa Hospital Dubai and annual picnic will be organised in November 2015.
