North America

By Stany DSouza

Chicago, Dec 5 :  The Mangalorean Konkan Christian Association celebrated its 21st annual Christmas Celebration at St. Hubert’s Church Hall at Hoffman Estates, Illinois on December 3rd.  In Konkani language, it is popularly called Nathal Fest, which celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.  Christmas is celebrated by all the 2.5 billion Christians worldwide on December 25th.

The Cultural program was initiated by the welcome note from the President of MKCA, Dr. Austin D’Souza Prabhu.  In his welcome address, he made a plea to the Christian community of Chicagol and area to be actively involved and participate in its cultural programs organized by MKCA.  He asked them to spread the word to others in the community about these programs.  He said, with the present participants' active involvement anything is possible.  He thanked members and guests for their staunch support in the success of several annual programs, especially this program.  He thanked the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Mike Scherschel and presented a cheque to him for his generosity in providing the venue.  In response to this Fr. Scherschel, communicated his warmest wishes of Christmas to the attendees and blessed the ethnic Indian food.  

The compeer of the program Steeven D’Souza welcomed all the audience to have the appetizers.  All of them enjoyed the ethnic appetizers.  

Charel Lasrado conducted several group activities for children and adults.  The children presented their spirited participation while adults relieved their younger age! Following were the winners of the activities conducted:  
Kids game – Marshmallow stuffing – Winner Ethan Mesquita.  
Kids below 10 – decorating the Christmas Tree – Esther Mesquita and Shannon Sequeira.  
Kids 10 – 18: Collecting Highest Candies – Solan D’Souza and 
Adults – Blowing Balloon: Florine Rodrigues and Primus D’Mello.  

The members and children present sang Christmas Carols, under the leadership of Concy Mesquita and a team of musicians.  The grand entry of Santa Claus (Austin Prabhu) thrilled the young children present.  The Santa entertained the children present with Christmas gifts.  The audience present were excited to take pictures with Santa. 

Savio Pais, the secretary of MKCA, thanked all the organizing committee for their relentless support in the success of the program.  He thanked all the audience for their gracious participation in the program. 

The program culminated with a sumptuous ethnic dinner.  Under effective DJ-ing by Queenie Mendonca, The audience enjoyed the dance to the tunes of Konkani, Hindi, Kannada and Spanish songs.  

For more pictures, please visit : MKCA Nathal Fest 2022