Chicago: The Mangalorean Konkan Christians Association, Chicago celebrated Monthi Fest at Techny Towers and Mission Center, Northbrook, Illinois. It was sunny and a gorgeous day in Chicagoland Area and devotees from all around the Chicagoland and surrounding states participated in this feast with enthusiasm with funfilled activities and sumptuous Indian Menu items for dinner. The feast not only celebrates the birth of Mother Mary but also symbolizes family unity and thanksgiving to the Almighty for ushering the people with new crop. The feast is equivalent to the celebration of “Thanksgiving” in America.
The program began with the celebration of Holy Eucharist lead by Rev. Fr. Henry Sequeira and Fr. Walter who were visiting from Goa, at the beautiful aesthetically designed cathedral of Techny Towers. In his message Fr. Henry highlighted the role of a mother in a family. Fr. Walter also gave a message on Nativity of Mother Mary. Before the celebration, children gathered offered flowers honoring the birth of Mother Mary. During the Holy Mass, Fr. Sequeira blessed the new rice crop.
Vice President of the association Ashok Monteiro welcomed participants to the program. During the social program, Austin Prabhu, compere of the program, lead “Jana Gana Mana”, the national anthem of India in celebrating the 68th Independence Day. All the participants joined to sing “God Bless America” to commemorate the remembrance of 3,000 lives lost during 9/11 attack on the Twin Towers in New York.
Participants thoroughly enjoyed the musical chairs activity tactfully conducted by Steven D’Souza, Chairperson of the event (current President of the Association). Winners of the children’s musical chairs were:
Children musical chairs:
1. Sherwin Lasrado
2. Ethan Misquita
Teenage group:
1. Logan Quadros
2. Ethan Carvalho
There was variety of mouthwatering vegetarian food and desserts prepared by the members of the association. Association Secretary Roshini Carvalho thanked all the participants and the members, who prepared sumptuous food for their great contribution in success of this program. She thanked the sponsor of the program, Jessie Singh. Participants enjoyed the Indian music presented by DJ Jason Mendonca.
