Milagres Church and Rosario Cathedral hold Konkani Religious Literature Exhibition and Convention
Mangaluru: Konkani Religious literature exhibition and convention, jointly organized by Milagres church and Rosario Cathedral Church was held at the Milagres Jubilee Hall on 30 September.
Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza Bishop Emeritus presided over the programme with other dignitaries, Fr Chethan Lobo Capuchin the editor of Uzwad and PRO of Udupi diocese, Fr J B Crasta Rector Rosario Cathedral, Fr Valerian D’Souza Parish Priest Milagres church, Roy Castelino Ex President Konkani Sahithya Academy and M P Noronha Secretary DPP.
Fr Chethan presented his paper on Konkani Marian Literature, its origin and growth, the contributions made by various Marian writers in the form of books, articles, poetry, folklore, hymns, with few examples. He also explained how the word “Saiben Mai” is coined and attributed to Mother Mary. In his conclusion, he said, “The legacy of Marian literature and devotion must transmit to the next generation”.
Roy Castelino shared his testimony how he encountered Mother Mary in his life and the result of praying the rosary every day. Expressing his sadness about the Young generation losing the importance of the Rosary, he said that parents must teach their children the power of the Rosary in life. Praying the rosary solves all our family problems. Because of Modern media, we don’t have time to pray the rosary.
In his presidential address, Bishop Emeritus Aloysius said, Marian devotion is years old. Most of the churches in Germany are named after Mary because the heretics questioned about the role of Mary as Mother of God. Quoting from the lives of St John Paul II, St Padre Pio and St Paul VI, the bishop said that we must pray the rosary as many times possible in a day and draw strength. Mother Mary should not only remain in literature but must remain in our families. We need to give importance to the family prayer. Parents have greater responsibilities to encourage children to pray the Rosary. Mother Mary is beside us always.
Fr Ivan Madtha Performed Marian Magic and entertained the gathering. Bonam team Pidmale Niddodi performed “Gumta Podam” and explained how relevant is Mary in the Konkani Folklore. Bishop Emeritus released the Book on Mary. Fr J B Crasta Welcomed the gathering, Fr Valerian Fernandes Raknno Editor compeered the programme, Marcel D’Souza delivered the vote of thanks.