The Managing Committee of the Holy Cross Oratory and the Residents’ Welfare Association ALM worked in unison to decorate the many by lanes of Matharpacady Village with illuminative decorative symbols of stars, Christmas trees, hearts, hexagonal and triangular shaped illustrative lanterns fitted with mini loudspeakers. Our youth creatively put up the Crib in the Holy Cross Oratory, which was flanked just outside by a decorated live towering Christmas tree. Resident families spruced up their homes with fresh coats of paint, buntings, frenzied shopping, Church choir and other activity practices. Tantalising aromas of traditional food, baked goodies and delicacies wafted the air, making mouths drool in lip-smacking anticipation of festive visits to various aunties homes.
On Friday, 23rd December 2016 night, a group of residents, led by Vincent Mascarenhas and his daughter, assembled at “Eymard Cottage”, the Blessed Sacrament Provincial House and went around carol singing : “Silver bells, Silver Bells”. Yes, it was really Christmas time in the village and environs. Midnight masses at Rosary Church and St. Anne’s were well attended. Families gathered together for the traditional lunch on Christmas Day and visited the homes of relatives and friends, whilst the youth spent late evening at dances and house parties.
Compiled by Tyronne Concescio. Photographs courtesy – Stan Baptista
