Mangalorean Konkani Christians of Chicago celebrate Christmas  

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The Mangalorean Konkan Christian Association, MKCA, celebrated its 20^th annual Christmas Celebration at St. Hubert’s Church Hall at Hoffman Estates, Illinois, December 14, 2024. Some 156 attendees participated in the celebrations according to organizers.

In Konkani language, it is popularly called Natal Fest, which celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. At the event, there was a general Holy Eucharist, where the MKCA members and guests attended. The first and second readings at the Mass were read by the members of MKCA, Dominick Carrabotta and Savio Pais, a press release from organizers said.

The Cultural program was initiated by the welcome note from the President of MKCA, Leonard Lobo Shenoy.  He presented the agenda of the program and meaning of Kuswar and traditions followed in greater Mangalorean areas in India.  He thanked members and guests for their staunch support in the success of several annual programs.  He thanked the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Tom Abraham for providing the venue. He elicited their comments and suggestions in improving the quality of the future programs.  He thanked organizing committee members for their unconditional support in organizing this year’s Natal Fest.

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The program was emceed by current Secretary of the Association Savio Pais who welcomed all the attendees. Ethnic appetizers were enjoyed by all who came.

Savio conducted several group activities for children, couples and adults. The children presented their activities spiritedly, and sang Christmas Carols with the other participants.

The entry of Santa Claus (Austin Prabhu) thrilled the children present, handing out gifts, and posing for pictures with the children.

Savio Pais thanked all the organizing committee for their relentless support in the success of the program.  He recognized all the members who supported in preparing Christmas Kuswar under the leadership of the Vice President Charel Alsamurrai.

The program culminated with a sumptuous ethnic dinner, MKCA said. Queenie Mendonca was an effective DJ bringing the audience to their feet to dance to tunes of Konkani, Hindi, Kannada and Spanish songs.

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