Monthi Fest Celebration at Kottara Cross Ward Back

Monthi Fest Celebration at Kottara Cross Ward

Monthi Fest was joyfully celebrated at Kottara Cross Ward as one united family on Sunday, 14th September 2025 at the residence of Mrs. Lizzie and Dr. John Pinto at 7:30 p.m. This marked the first major community celebration since the formation of the ward in its 14-year history.

The celebration began with a warm welcome to the distinguished guests: Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Joseph Martis, Sr. Maria, Parish Council Vice President Mrs. Sheela D’Souza, Secretary Mr. Denzil Pinto, and 21 Commissions Coordinator Mr. Anil Patrao, who were greeted with roses. The function commenced with the recitation of the Angelus, led by the ward Gurkar Mr. Edwin D’Souza.

Fr. Joseph Martis offered special prayers, invoking the blessings of Mother Mary for unity, integrity, and good health of all ward members. As a sign of devotion, members offered flowers to Mother Mary while singing the traditional hymn “Sakkad Sagantha  Meliyamn".  The Gurkar Mr. Edwin along with his wife Mrs. Helen, symbolically cleaned and powdered the blessed new grains and mixed them in the roce. The same distributed to all Ward Representative Mrs. Diana D’Souza.

The ward also took this opportunity to honour all teachers by presenting them with roses. In his address, Fr. Joseph Martis encouraged members to actively attend ward meetings and participate wholeheartedly in all events, setting aside comparisons. Sr. Maria, Mrs. Sheela D’Souza, Mr. Denzil Pinto, and Mr. Anil Patrao also spoke on the occasion, appreciating the efforts of the ward members in organizing such a meaningful event and stressing the importance of unity.

Active members Mrs. Lavina Pinto, Mrs. Nancy Lasrado, Ward Representative Mrs. Diana D’Souza, and former Ward Representative Mrs. Emiliana D’Silva shared their experiences and praised the contributions of members, especially those who prepared dishes and extended support.

The vote of thanks was proposed by Gurkar Mr. Edwin D’Souza, who expressed gratitude to the Parish Priest, Parish leaders, all ward members, and especially to the Dr. John & Lizzie Pinto family for graciously hosting the programme at their residence.

The evening included spot games, and winners were congratulated. The programme was beautifully compered by Mrs. Lizzie Pinto, and the celebration concluded with a fellowship meal, where everyone enjoyed the delicious dishes lovingly prepared by ward members. A total of 41 members were present for the event.

The event truly reflected the spirit of unity, family, and devotion that Monthi Fest represents.