Mangalorean Christians living in Luxembourg recently convened to celebrate Monthi Festh, bringing a cherished tradition from coastal Karnataka to the heart of Europe. On a recent Saturday, approximately 45 individuals, comprising local Mangalorean families and friends from other Indian communities, gathered on the lawns of the Garden Chapel of St Alphonse in Luxembourg City for the vibrant observance. The celebration harmoniously blended religious customs associated with the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary with distinct Mangalorean culture, cuisine, and communal fellowship.
The day's festivities commenced with children and families participating in the traditional showering of flowers, an act of reverence for Mother Mary. Following this, Fr Lizel Joy D'Souza and Fr Trishan D'Souza, both priests from the Diocese of Mangalore currently pursuing studies in Rome, co-celebrated a bilingual Holy Mass in Konkani and English. The community then took the opportunity to felicitate the visiting priests, acknowledging their presence and spiritual guidance.
During his address, Fr Lizel elaborated on the profound meaning of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, calling Mary's birth the 'dawn of our salvation' that heralded Jesus Christ's arrival. He also recounted the history of the Maria Bambina devotion and its journey to Mangalore, explaining how it became intrinsically linked with Monthi Festh, the devotion to Our Lady of the Mount, and the customary harvest meal that unites families and communities.
Beyond the religious ceremonies, a lively community get-together unfolded, featuring a quiz on Mother Mary, various games, and activities designed for all age groups. The day culminated in a traditional vegetarian Mangalorean potluck lunch, with members contributing a diverse array of homemade dishes. Patrick D'Souza, the lead organiser, emphasized the event's role in strengthening bonds within their growing community, far from their homeland. He remarked, 'Luxembourg has become our home away from home. Our Mangalorean community here may still be small, but it has grown steadily over the past few years.' He added that the Festh, with its deep religious and cultural significance, allows them to celebrate faith and traditions while fostering a sense of belonging.
Co-organiser Vivek Cornelio highlighted how such celebrations also bridge connections with Luxembourg's multicultural society. 'For us, preserving our culture does not mean celebrating it in isolation,' Cornelio stated. 'It is about bringing a small piece of Mangalore with us and allowing it to become part of the diverse cultural fabric of Luxembourg.' He noted that these events provide an opportunity to share their heritage while building friendships in their adopted country. Monthi Festh, traditionally observed by Mangalorean Catholics in September, commemorates the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary and signifies thanksgiving for the harvest, family, and community. Its importance endures in Mangalorean communities globally.
Image: mangalorean.com
đź“° Source: Mangalorean Gulf