“Let us celebrate with joy the birth of the blessed Virgin Mary that she intercedes for us with Lord Jesus Christ”.
Manama: “Sakkad Sangatha Melyan” ani “Moriyek Hogolsiyan” was sung with one voice by Bellevision Bahrain on 12th of September 2016 as they celebrated the much awaited Nativity feast of our devoted Mother Mary, known as Monti Fest. It’s an occasion when Bellevison Bahrain families come together and renew their bonds over a meal that contains blessed grain from the first harvest.
Under the able leadership of President Alfreeda Castelino and through the planning and execution by the committee and aptly supported by all the members the celebration began at 12 noon with Master of ceremony Ivan Sequeira’s welcome and brief introduction about the Monti Fest to the gathering.
As Monti Fest is a feast of the family and prayer is the foundation that keeps the family together, to keep that concept true prayer was conducted by Edward Fernandes and family.
President Alfreeda Castelino welcomed all the guest and sponsors. In her speech, she explained the significance of Monti Fest and conveyed her festive wishes to all. She urged all the members to keep the unity as one family.
Continuing the rich tradition, in honour of Mother Mary, the statue of infant Mother Mary, was carried in a procession by the President along with children carrying fresh flowers to shower them on Mama Mary placed at the beautifully decorated stage by Joel D’sa and Arun Castelino.
Mother Mary was honoured with the offering of flowers in a traditional manner accompanied by the melodious choir. The novem or blessed corn was distributed which was sponsored by Ronald Alva & Fly. Homemade cake by Naveen Mendonca was distributed to the gathering.
The dance performances were given by Ries & Delisha, Shanelle & Sophia and Ashel added delight and flavours to the celebration.
Ronald Fernandes, Nikhita Fernandes and Preetham Aranha entertained the crowd with their melodious songs.
Sumptuous traditional vegetarian meal along with vorn was served to all.
Naveen Mendonca and Arun Castelino under their proficient leadership took the in-charge of the catering and were assisted by their team including: Edward Fernandes, Preetham Aranha, Roshan Dsouza, Ronald Alva, Gilbert Sequeira, Sharmila Sequeira, Nirmala Fernandes, Hilda D’sa, Princy Alva & Sylvia Dsouza.
Secretary Rashmi Fernandes delivered the vote of thanks and thanked each and everyone who worked hard for such a fantastic gathering.
Registration counter was managed by our efficient members Princy Alva, Pramila Martis & Laveena Mendonca.
Children were given sugarcane. The feast was celebrated with joy and happiness by Bellevision Bahrain and was a proof of unity.
Report by Sylvia D’Souza
Pics by Wilson D’Souza & Ronald Fernandes