St. Peter Church Barkur Celebrates Monthi Festh with Grandeur and Tradition
-News & Pics Herbert Joseph Menezes and Rishon Barnes
In a vibrant display of faith and cultural heritage, the parishioners of St. Peter Church in Barkur came together on Sunday, September 8th, to celebrate the cherished Monthi Festh, also known as the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This annual celebration, deeply rooted in the traditions of Canara Catholics, brought the community together in a joyous observance of both spiritual significance and agricultural abundance.
Procession and Blessing of the New Crop
The festivities commenced with a solemn yet jubilant procession, as the idol of the Infant Mary was carried from the church to the residence of Mrs. Rosy Mendonca. This symbolic journey represents the bringing of divine blessings into the homes and lives of the faithful. At Mrs. Mendonca's residence, a pivotal moment of the celebration unfolded as the New Crop of paddy was blessed, intertwining the community's agricultural heritage with their spiritual devotion.
The procession then made its way back to the church, creating a picturesque scene as young children scattered flower petals along the path. This gesture, both beautiful and symbolic, represents the community's desire to honor Mary and prepare a welcoming path for her blessings.
High Mass and Angelic Voices
The focal point of the celebration was the High Mass, presided over by Rev. Fr. Ronald Miranda, the Parish Priest of St. Peter Church along with Rev.Fr. Xavier Pinto, retired rector of St.Antony's shrine, Kerekatte. The service was further elevated by the angelic voices of the children's choir, under the expert guidance of Choir Master Eric Soans. Their melodious renditions added a celestial quality to the proceedings, enhancing the spiritual experience for all in attendance.
Fr. Xavier Pinto's homily linked Monthi Festh, a celebration of Mary's birth and family values, with Girl Child's Day in India, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by girls and women in the country. He emphasized the feast's significance as a family celebration, drawing parallels between Mary's holy family and the importance of strong, loving families today. The connection to Girl Child's Day served as a poignant reminder of persistent gender disparities in India, including skewed gender ratios, educational gaps, and violence against women. Fr. Pinto's call for respect towards females resonated beyond religious boundaries, encouraging equal valuation of daughters, promoting education and economic opportunities for girls, and advocating for legal protections and healthcare access. By intertwining these themes, Fr. Pinto created a powerful narrative that bridges spiritual tradition with social responsibility, urging the faithful to embody values of respect, equality, and familial love in their daily lives and society at large.
Distribution of Blessings
Following the Mass, the blessed New Crop was distributed among the parishioners, a tradition that symbolizes the sharing of God's blessings and the fruits of their labor. This act of distribution reinforces the sense of community and shared prosperity among the faithful.
Community Gathering and Snacks Distribution
The celebration extended beyond the formal religious ceremonies, as parishioners gathered to exchange festive greetings and well-wishes. The spirit of generosity was evident as attendees departed with Snacks and Malt, graciously donated by kind-hearted members of the community. This sweet conclusion to the day's events served as a reminder of the sweetness of faith and community bonds. Strangely the distribution of Sugarcane was missing as a glaring gap in the tradition of Monthi Festh.
Significance of Monthi Festh for Canara Catholics
The Monthi Festh holds a special place in the hearts of Canara Catholics, a community primarily located in the coastal regions of Karnataka. This festival, celebrated on September 8th each year, marks the birthday of the Virgin Mary and coincides with the harvest season in the region.
For Canara Catholics, Monthi Festh is more than just a religious observance; it's a celebration that intertwines their faith with their agricultural heritage. The blessing of the new paddy crop during the festival is a centuries-old tradition that seeks divine protection for a bountiful harvest. This practice underscores the community's deep connection to the land and their gratitude for nature's bounty.
The festival also serves as a time for family reunions and community bonding. Many Canara Catholics who have moved away from their ancestral homes make it a point to return for Monthi Festh, reinforcing family ties and cultural connections.
In essence, Monthi Festh for Canara Catholics is a beautiful amalgamation of spiritual devotion, cultural pride, and communal harmony. It stands as a testament to the community's ability to preserve their unique traditions while adapting to the changing times, ensuring that future generations continue to cherish and celebrate their rich heritage.
