MKCA, USA Celebrates 22nd Annual Monti Fest in Chicago
Chicago, USA: The Mangalorean Konkan Christian Association (MKCA) celebrated its 22nd annual Monti Fest at St. Hubert’s Church Hall in Hoffman Estates, Illinois. This unique festival, similar to Thanksgiving in the USA, is a time for Mangaloreans to give thanks to Mother Mary for gifting Jesus Christ and the new crop of the season.
The celebration began with a Holy Eucharist, where MKCA members and guests attended. The cultural program followed, initiated by President Leonard Lobo, who welcomed the audience and recognized the contributions of the Executive Committee. He also shared the history of MKCA and its founder, Dr. Austin Prabhu.
Compeer Savio Pais, the current Secretary, led the program with games for children and adults, and introduced Rev. Fr. Tom Abraham, who provided the venue. Pais thanked the organizing committee, members, and guests for their efforts in preparing traditional Mangalorean food.
Fr. Tom Abraham blessed the food, and the program concluded with a sumptuous ethnic dinner. The audience enjoyed dancing to Konkani, Hindi, and Spanish songs under the DJing of Queenie Mendonca.
Monti Fest is a time for Mangaloreans to come together, give thanks, and celebrate the birth of the Virgin Mary. The festival is a unique blend of tradition and culture, and MKCA’s celebration was a testament to the community’s spirit and heritage.