Mangaluru, September 8: Devotees gathered at Father Muller Charitable Institutions in Mangaluru on Tuesday, September 8, to observe Monti Fest, the significant Christian festival celebrating Mother Mary's birthday and the New Corn Festival. This cherished annual event, deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of coastal Karnataka's Christian community, unfolded with traditional devotion and a profound sense of community spirit.
The day's ceremonies commenced with a vibrant procession, which started from the entrance of Father Muller Nursing College and gracefully wound its way towards St. Joseph Chapel. Along the route, worshippers, young and old, reverently offered colorful flowers to the sacred statue of Infant Mary, a heartfelt expression of their abiding faith and love. The air was filled with hymns and prayers, adding to the spiritual ambiance.
Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo, the institution's director, presided over the solemn main Holy Mass, a central component of the Monti Fest observance. During the service, he performed the traditional blessing of the new corn, symbolizing the fresh harvest and invoking divine blessings for abundance and prosperity for the coming year.
Addressing the large congregation, Rev. Dr. Michael Santhumayor, Administrator of Father Muller Medical College, delivered a poignant and timely message. He emphasized Mother Mary's universal role as an eternal mother and highlighted the contemporary importance of fostering unity and harmony within families, urging attendees to uphold these values. Dr. Santhumayor also advocated strongly for the protection, nurturing, and empowerment of girl children across society, underscoring their critical role in community well-being.
Also participating prominently in the worship were Rev. Fr. George Jeevan Sequeira, Administrator of Father Muller Hospital, and Rev. Fr. William D'Souza, its Co-Administrator, among other clergy. Following the conclusion of the Holy Mass, attendees received blessed new corn stalks, a cherished symbol of the harvest festival, carrying home its spiritual and cultural significance. The celebration underscored the deep faith and communal bonds prevalent in the region.
Image for illustration purposes only
📰 Source: Vartha Bharati DK