Catholics across the Diocese of Mangalore marked Monthi Fest—the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary—on 8 September with vibrant parish celebrations, floral tributes by children, and the traditional blessing of the new harvest (novem). From city parishes to coastal and rural communities, the faithful gathered in large numbers for festal Masses, processions, and family meals of thanksgiving.
Message from the Bishop to the media
In a message to the media, Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore, reflected on the deeper meaning of the feast. He noted that children carrying flowers and families offering first fruits are powerful signs of gratitude for God’s providence. He highlighted three treasures entrusted by God—the new crops, the birthday of Mother Mary, and the women in our families—calling on the faithful to value and safeguard these gifts.
He further linked the feast to the Season of Creation (1 Sept–4 Oct), inviting everyone to pray, participate in the Eucharist, and protect creation with love and care.
Parish celebrations across the diocese
Across the diocese, parishes observed:
Novenas and festal Masses with Konkani hymns and floral offerings by children.
Blessing and distribution of the new paddy (novem), carried in procession and later shared at home.
Family-centred customs, including the traditional vegetarian meal (novem jevann), thanksgiving for mothers and girl-children, and special prayers for farmers and seafarers.
Community outreach, with many parishes organising visits to the sick and elderly, sharing blessed grain and festive food.
Creation-care initiatives, such as sapling distribution, plastic-free gatherings, and parish pledges to reduce waste during the Season of Creation.
City, coastal, and rural snapshots
City parishes reported packed morning liturgies, children’s flower processions, and choir-led Konkani hymnody. Catechism groups led floral tributes and Marian skits.
Coastal communities emphasised thanksgiving for safe livelihoods and the sea’s bounty, with parish sodalities coordinating processions and family blessings.
Agrarian belts brought sheaves of new paddy for blessing, praying for favourable seasons and sustainable farming practices. Many wards hosted neighbourhood Rosaries and shared meals to strengthen family bonds.
At the Cathedral—and beyond
While the Rosario Cathedral hosted a solemn festal Mass presided over by the Bishop, equally spirited celebrations unfolded simultaneously in parishes across the diocese, ensuring that the focus remained parish-centric and family-centred throughout the region.
Faith, family, and creation
Monthi Fest once again stood out as a celebration of faith and culture in the Konkani Catholic tradition—uniting families, elevating the dignity of women, and renewing the community’s commitment to thanksgiving for nature’s bounty and care for creation.
