September 8, 2025: St. Antony Church, Anthonykatte, joyfully celebrated the Feast of Our Lady of Nativity, popularly known as Monthi Fest, with great devotion, unity, and cultural fervor. The celebration, which holds both spiritual and cultural significance, marked the birthday of Mother Mary and was observed with traditional solemnity and joy.

Solemn Eucharistic Celebration

The festal Eucharistic celebration was solemnly presided over by Rev. Fr. Kevin Lawrence D’Souza, Rector of ‘Kripa Sadana’ Minor Seminary, Bajpe, as the main celebrant. In his homily, Fr. Kevin Lawrence reflected on the virtues of Mother Mary as a model of faith and humility and encouraged the faithful to nurture families rooted in prayer, love, and service.

Cultural and Harvest Significance

Monthi Fest is not only a Marian feast but also a thanksgiving for the harvest. The nine days of Novena prayers in honor of Infant Mary culminated in this grand celebration, symbolizing unity in the family and respect for nature’s blessings. Newly harvested paddy stalks (Novem) were blessed during the festal Mass and later distributed among the faithful, symbolizing gratitude for the gift of new life and abundance.

Spirit of Joy and Unity

The celebration was enriched by the wholehearted participation of the faithful, altar servers, choir members, youth, and parish associations. With floral tributes offered to Infant Mary, melodious hymns, and community spirit, the feast radiated an atmosphere of devotion, gratitude, and joy.

The Monthi Fest at Anthonykatte once again reminded everyone of the importance of family togetherness, cultural heritage, and the enduring protection of Mother Mary.