St Lawrence Church & Shrine, Bondel, rejoiced in prayerful devotion and deep faith as the faithful gathered to celebrate Monthi Fest – the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary
On Tuesday , September 8, 2026, the faithful of St Lawrence Church, Bondel, celebrated the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (“Monthi Fest”) in a solemn and prayerful manner. The sacred festivities commenced at 7:30 a.m. in the Church Mini Hall with the blessing of the new paddy sheaves and the offering of fragrant flowers to Infant Mary. Rev. Fr Basil Vas, Rector and Parish Priest, prayerfully invoked God’s abundant blessings upon the new harvest and all the faithful.
In a beautiful expression of childlike love and devotion, the children reverently offered flowers at the feet of Infant Mary, entrusting their lives and intentions to the loving care of the Blessed Mother. This touching moment reflected the deep Marian devotion cherished by the parish community. Thereafter, a solemn and graceful procession proceeded towards the church. Led by the melodious strains of the brass band and accompanied by hymns in honour of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the procession prayerfully moved forward with the faithful parishioners, creating an atmosphere of devotion, joy and thanksgiving.
The solemn Festal Holy Mass was presided over by Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, Principal of St Lawrence English Medium School. Rev. Fr Basil Vas, Rector and Parish Priest; Rev. Fr Lawrence Cutinha, Assistant Priest; and Rev. Fr Gilbert concelebrated the Eucharistic celebration.
In his homily, Rev. Fr. Lawrence Cutinha reflected on the significance of Monthi Fest and reminded the faithful that Mary, the Mother of God, is a blessing to all humanity. As we celebrate the birthday of Mother Mary, honour the girl child and partake of the new corn together as one family, he urged everyone to follow the virtues of Mary in their daily lives.
He highlighted Mary as a perfect role model whose humility, faith and obedience to God continue to inspire us. Just as Mary’s presence brought blessings to others, we too are called to become a blessing in our homes, wards, parish and society. He encouraged the faithful to follow Mother Mary’s example and spread love, peace and goodness wherever they are.
Rev. Fr Basil Vas extended his heartfelt Monthi Fest greetings to all the parishioners, including those living abroad. He expressed his sincere gratitude to everyone who generously contributed their time, talents and resources towards making the novena and feast celebrations a prayerful and memorable experience. He offered special appreciation to the PPC members, volunteers and the ICYM youth , altar boys, catechism teachers , children choir for their dedicated service and wholehearted support.
He also appreciated the children who beautifully led the liturgy and choir, adding a special charm and prayerful spirit to the Eucharistic celebration.
After the Holy Mass, the Gurkars reverently distributed the blessed new corn to the parishioners, symbolising gratitude to God for the gift of the harvest and His abundant providence. Sugarcane was lovingly shared among the children and the faithful, adding joy and sweetness to the festive occasion.
The celebration concluded with parishioners warmly exchanging Monthi Fest greetings and wishes. The feast truly became a beautiful expression of faith, family unity, gratitude and devotion to Mother Mary, bringing the entire parish community together as one family in the love of Christ.
Report/ Photography Meena Serrao Barboza
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