Parapady Sep 09, 2017: The Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, also called the Monti Fest, was celebrated with great devotion and fervour in Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Church, Nirmalpadau, Parapady on Friday, 8th September 2017.
The Festal Ceremony began at 8.30 a.m. near the newly built Mother Mary Grotto. Rev Fr Vincent Lobo, Parish Priest blessed the new paddy sheaves sourced from the various farms. Rev Fr Vincent Lobo offered novena prayers to infant mary. Little Childrens along with all faithfuls offered flowers to Mother Mary with the singing of “Moriek Hogalsian”. Later the blessed newly harvested paddy along with infant mary statue was taken inside the church with procession.
The Solemn festal mass was celebrated by Rev Fr Vincent Lobo who also gave a meaningful homily on the life of Mother Mary. Monthi Fest is the celebration of family bonds, filial relationships. The family bonding is essential for better relations and it is the time to introspect on one’s life. He further said, this day is dedicated to a Girl Child, and he explained the significance of Woman’s life and sacrifice in every family. Also he said Monthi fest is the occasion of thanksgiving to the Almighty for the abundance of graces that he has showered on mankind.
After the Holy Mass, he conveyed his wishes of Monthi fest to all the parishioners and thanked each and everyone who offered their generous contributions to this feast. He also thanked the donors.
At the end, first harvest paddy was distributed to all attendees of the solemn feast. Later the faithful returned home with the blessed new paddy and the children cherished the day as sugar canes were distributed to them.
Monti Fest has cultural significance. It is a harvest festival for them. The feast food is a variety of vegetarian delicacies from locally grown vegetables. The feast, popularly known as Monti Fest in Konkani, is observed after the nine-day Novena.
