Verghese V Joseph –
The Mangalorean Catholic Association of the East Coast (MCA-EC) has etched a new milestone in its 17-year journey with a historic, record-breaking Monthi Festh 2026, drawing the largest attendance ever at Our Lady of Peace Church in North Brunswick, New Jersey. Families from across the Tri-State area gathered on September 8 to honour the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary through solemn liturgy, vibrant cultural traditions, and a powerful spirit of faith and community.
This year’s celebration was not only the biggest in MCA-EC history but also a profound expression of Mangalorean Catholic identity, blending centuries-old customs with contemporary community engagement. Monthi Festh, observed annually on September 8, commemorates the birth of Mother Mary and the blessing of the new harvest—Novem—symbolizing gratitude for God’s providence. For the Mangalorean Catholic diaspora, it is a cherished occasion to reconnect with roots, reinforce family bonds, and pass on traditions to younger generations.
The festivities commenced with a high solemn Mass, concelebrated by a distinguished gathering of clergy. Fr. Robert Lasrado served as the main celebrant, while Fr. Augustine Dsouza delivered an inspiring homily centered on faith, family unity, and thanksgiving. Deacon Glenn proclaimed the Holy Gospel, and MCA-EC Spiritual Director Fr. Ron Machado guided the liturgical proceedings. The Eucharist was further enriched by the presence of Fr. Joseph Kannampally, Fr. Joseph Francis, Fr. Divya Karunesh, Fr. Justin Akkara, Fr. Anil D’Sa, and Fr. Wency Rodrigues. Special gratitude was extended to Fr. Mike, pastor of Our Lady of Peace Church, for warmly hosting the community.
A major highlight was the soul-stirring performance by the MCA Choir, whose weeks of intense rehearsals culminated in sacred harmonies that elevated the spiritual atmosphere. The liturgy also featured a moving tribute to Infant Mary by children, youth, and young adults, who performed “As I Kneel Before You.” In a symbolic gesture of thanksgiving, MCA-EC gardeners carried forward the fresh fruits of their harvest during the offertory procession, supported by ushers, lectors, and altar servers.
Following Mass, children and families gathered to venerate Infant Mary with flowers—a tradition known as Fula Wudonchem (flower offering). The blessing of the new corn was followed by the serving of traditional Novem milk, blessed with newly harvested grain, along with delicious laddoo. Attendees then proceeded to the church hall for the grand Novem Jovaan, a festive lunch featuring nine distinct vegetable dishes in keeping with authentic Mangalorean tradition. This nostalgic vegetarian feast, served on banana leaves, offered everyone a tangible taste of home and heritage.
True to the spirit of Monthi Festh as a festival of harvest and sharing, MCA-EC demonstrated profound charity. Community members assembled and delivered 100 Blessing Bags filled with winter gear directly to the Missionaries of Charity in Newark. Generous donors also contributed non-perishable food items—including rice and canned goods—alongside six full trays of festive food to support families in need.
For the first time in MCA-EC history, the association hosted an Entrepreneur Showcase, featuring 10 local Mangalorean Catholic entrepreneurs in the church hall. Attendees enthusiastically visited the stalls to support and encourage community members displaying their businesses, products, and services—a testament to the community’s growing spirit of enterprise and mutual upliftment.
The afternoon stage came alive with 12 outstanding cultural performances, including four inter-vado acts that united families across different regional sub-groups. Choreographers Arine Aranha and Sonia Cutinho were recognized for organizing practice sessions and choreographing vibrant dances for kids and teens. Emcees Shyna Quadras and Arlene Sequeira kept the audience engaged with wonderful energy throughout the program.
Following the performances, guests enjoyed a traditional High Tea featuring freshly made Mangalorean delicacies, including crispy goli baje and potato poadi. As a final touch of tradition, every guest was presented with fresh sugarcane as a take-home gift—a customary symbol of sweetness and prosperity.
Addressing the gathering, MCA-EC President Alan D’Souza expressed deep gratitude to the community, clergy, past leaders, and volunteers who made the event a resounding success. He formally recognized the tireless work of his Executive Board—Vice President Cleon, Treasurer Santosh, General Secretary Arlene, and Regional Coordinator Shyna—inviting them to stand for community applause. Special thanks were also extended to Gurkars and Gurkarns, DJ Gladson for AV/sound, Chris Monis for event photography, and Violet Monis for her ongoing support.
In a landmark announcement, President D’Souza unveiled AMCHI 2027—a National Convention of Mangalorean Catholics across the United States and Canada, scheduled for April 23–25, 2027. Centered on Amcho Bhavadth (Faith), Amchi Saunsakrathi (Culture), and Amcho Ekvot (Unity), the convention will be inaugurated by Most Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore.
The memorable day concluded with warm fellowship, marking another glorious chapter in MCA-EC’s 17-year journey of connecting people and preserving heritage. With record attendance, spiritual depth, cultural vibrancy, and charitable impact, Monthi Festh 2026 stands as a beacon of faith, unity, and hope for the Mangalorean Catholic community on the East Coast and beyond.