News n Pics: Herbert Joseph Menezes
Barkur, August 30, 2024- The air in Barkur is filled with a palpable sense of anticipation and reverence as the Canara Catholic Christian community embarks on one of its most cherished annual traditions - the celebration of Monthi Festh. This year, St. Peter's Church has set the stage for a deeply spiritual journey with the commencement of the nine-day Novena, marking the beginning of festivities honoring the nativity of Holy Mother Mary.
As the sun peeped in the horizon on Friday morning, the grounds of St. Peter's Church came alive with the vibrant hues of fresh flower bouquets. Parishioners of all ages, from wide-eyed children to venerable elders, gathered around the church's beloved Grotto of Mother Mary, their faces alight with devotion and excitement.
The inaugural Novena service was led by the charismatic Rev. Fr. Rony Miranda, whose presence added gravitas to the already solemn occasion. As Fr. Miranda's voice rose in prayer, it was joined by a chorus of faithful followers, their combined supplications creating a powerful symphony of faith that seemed to resonate through the very stones of the church.
"The Novena is not just a tradition, but a spiritual journey that prepares us for the joyous celebration of Monthi Festh," explained Fr. Miranda. "It's a time for introspection, renewal, and deepening our connection with Holy Mother Mary."
The significance of Monthi Festh, also known as the Nativity Feast, cannot be overstated in the Canara Catholic community. This celebration, culminating on September 8th, is deeply rooted in the cultural and spiritual fabric of the region. It serves as a time for families to come together, for communities to strengthen bonds, and for individuals to reflect on their faith and seek blessings for the coming year.
Long-time parishioner, Gretta Gonsalves, shared her thoughts on the commencement of the Novena. "Every year, as we begin these nine days of prayer, I'm filled with a sense of peace and hope. It's as if Mother Mary herself is watching over us, guiding us towards her son, Jesus."
The scene at the Grotto was a visual feast, with parishioners holding aloft bouquets of freshly picked flowers - a traditional offering symbolizing the beauty and purity of the Virgin Mary. The sweet fragrance of assorted flowers mingled with the earthy scent of incense, creating an atmosphere that engaged all the senses in worship.
Young Adrien Crasta , a 17-year-old altar boy, expressed his excitement about participating in his Novena as a server. "I've always watched from the congregation, but this year, I get to be up close to the action. It makes me feel more connected to our community and our faith," he said with a shy smile.
As the Novena prayers continue over the next eight days, the church will host a series of special events, including community meals, cultural programs, and charitable activities. These events are designed to bring the community closer together and to embody the virtues of love, compassion, and service that Mother Mary exemplifies.
The parish council has been working tirelessly to ensure that this year's Monthi Festh celebrations are memorable. Council Vice President Joseph Fernandes shared some of the plans: "We've organized traditional procession of Monthi Festh in our region. We want this to be a time of joy, learning, and spiritual growth for everyone in our community."
The culmination of these nine days of devotion will be the grand Monthi Festh celebration on September 8th. The day will begin with a solemn High Mass, followed by the blessing and distribution of blessed new grains - a unique tradition symbolizing gratitude for the harvest and hope for prosperity in the coming year.
As the first day of Novena prayers came to a close, the parishioners of St. Peter's Church dispersed into the cool evening air, their hearts full and spirits lifted. The next eight days promise to be a time of profound spiritual significance, community bonding, and joyous celebration.
For the Canara Catholic community in Barkur and beyond, the commencement of the Novena marks more than just the beginning of a festival - it signals the start of a season of renewal, hope, and unwavering faith. As the faithful continue to gather each evening, their prayers and devotions will build like a crescendo, reaching its peak with the jubilant celebrations of Monthi Festh on September 8th.
In these times of global uncertainty, the coming together of the community in faith and celebration serves as a beacon of hope and unity, reminding all of the enduring power of tradition, community, and spiritual devotion.