Report by Gerry D’Mello
Pics: Ronald D’Souza
As part of Christmas celebration, Mangalorean Association of Canada (MAC), which comprises of the Konkani Catholic Community of Greater Toronto, organized ‘Christmas Concert and Party’ with joy and splendor at Sts Martha and Mary Parish in Mississauga on December 14.
The grand celebration began with the High Mass in Konkani celebrated by Fr Edwin D’Souza, the spiritual director of MAC and Fr Henry Alva OFM Cap., the Provincial of the Franciscan Capuchins of ‘Mary Mother of Good Shepherd’ province, in the region of English speaking Canada.
The church reverberated with the voices of the faithful and the magnificence and significance of the Christmas festival was evident in the significant crowd gathered. The walls of the church resonated with the mellifluous singing of the Konkani choir conducted by Merlyn Rodrigues and the music accompaniment by Lester Rodrigues and Wilson D’Souza. The homily delivered by Fr Henry Alva was very enlightening and thought provoking. He gave a clarion call to create a Crib in the hearts for the birth of Christ to enjoy love, joy and peace of Baby Jesus.
At the end of the Eucharistic celebration, Manohar Pais, the dynamic president of MAC delivered the vote of thanks. He thanked the clergy, the Choir, the members of the executive committee and all those who supported in making the event a grand success. He also thanked the sponsors and volunteers for their time, selfless sacrifices and energy during the year 2019.
The highlight of the programme, after the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, was a Christmas tableau that was presented by MAC children of various age groups directed by Nina Crasta and Suneetha D’Souza. Each child is to be commended for their unique accomplishment as the Tableau was a resounding success and appreciated by all. Rony D’Souza, the spiritual coordinator, ensured that the programme ran smoothly and was seamless.
The Christmas party celebration commenced at the party hall with a hearty welcome that was extended to an overwhelmingly full hall by the emcee, John D’Souza. With his charming and inimitable style, John built a rapport with the audience. The MAC members and guests were treated with Christmas carols, games, gifts, Christmas cake and delicious snacks. Children were overjoyed to receive gifts from Santa.
Manohar Pais and his support team organized the event meticulously and to perfection.
Click below for pictures: