On October 12, 2026, the Mangalorean Catholic Association of the East Coast (MCA-EC) celebrated its 17th anniversary with a record-breaking Monthi Festh at Our Lady of Peace Church in North Brunswick, New Jersey, drawing the largest crowd in the group's history from the Tri‑State region.
The day opened with a solemn Eucharistic celebration led by Fr. Robert Lasrado, while Fr. Augustine Dsouza delivered a homily that linked faith, family unity and gratitude. Deacon Glenn proclaimed the Gospel and Fr. Ron Machado, the association's spiritual director, oversaw the liturgy. A cadre of clergy—including Fr. Joseph Kannampally, Fr. Joseph Francis, Fr. Divya Karunesh, Fr. Justin Akkara, Fr. Anil D’Sa and Fr. Wency Rodrigues—joined in concelebration, and the parish pastor, Fr. Mike, welcomed the gathering.
The MCA Choir, after weeks of rehearsals, filled the sanctuary with harmonious chants that lifted the spiritual atmosphere. Children, youth and young adults performed the hymn “As I Kneel Before You,” offering a heartfelt tribute to Infant Mary. During the offertory, MCA-EC gardeners presented fresh harvest fruits, symbolising thanksgiving.
Following Mass, families venerated Infant Mary with flower garlands, received a blessing of newly harvested corn, and shared traditional Novem milk and laddoo. The church hall then hosted the Novem Jovaan, a feast featuring nine distinct vegetable dishes that evoked the flavors of home.
Charitable spirit shone through the distribution of 100 Blessing Bags containing winter gear to the Missionaries of Charity in Newark, alongside non‑perishable food donations and six trays of festive meals for needy families.
For the first time, the association introduced an Entrepreneur Showcase, where ten local Mangalorean Catholic entrepreneurs displayed their products and services, drawing enthusiastic support from attendees. The afternoon stage buzzed with twelve cultural performances, including four inter‑vado acts that united families from different regional sub‑groups.
Overall, the 2026 Monthi Festh combined reverent worship, cultural pride and community service, setting a new benchmark for future celebrations.
Image: mangalorean.com
📰 Source: Mangalorean Gulf