Mangalore Diocese News

Report: Arwin Fernandes, Nirkan
Photos by: Vinol Crasta, Nirkan

Nirkan - Bantwal, Sep 8 : The feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Monthi Festh) was celebrated with devotion at St. Thomas the Apostle Church in Nirkan on Sunday, September 8, 2024.

Rev. Fr. Michael Lobo blessed the paddy crops, at 8:00 am at Nirkan school ground and the devotees offered flowers to Mother Mary, followed by a procession towards the church, singing hymns.

The Holy Eucharistic celebration began at 8:30 am. Very Rev. Fr. Naveen Pinto, Judicial Vicar for the Diocese of Mangalore, was the main celebrant priest. The mass was concelebrated by Rev. Fr. Leo William Lobo, the parish priest; along with Rev. Fr. Wilfred D'Souza; Rev. Fr. Michael Lobo; Rev Fr Roshan D’sa; Rev Fr. Alex; and other priests in attendance.

During his celebratory sermon, Very Rev Fr Naveen Pinto underscored the significance of Mother Mary, urging the congregation to regard her with the same reverence as their own mothers at home. He emphasized that just as the mother is the heartbeat of the family, Mother Mary should also hold a special place in our hearts.

After the festive mass, Rev Fr Leo William Lobo, the parish priest, conveyed his greetings for Monthi Fest to all the parishioners and devotees present. He expressed his gratitude to everyone involved for the successful celebration of Monthi Fest, and distributed candles of honor to the feast's sponsors. Sugarcane was distributed to all the devotees.