St Joseph Church celebrate Pongal

Feb 05, 2016

BATU GAJAH (Herald Malaysia): The Parish of St Joseph, Batu Gajah, celebrated the Ponggal festival (Harvest festival) on Jan 17, 2016 in a traditional way. The celebration started at about 8.00am with the boiling and blessing of Ponggal rice by Fr Andrew Stephen. Fr Andrew reminded all gathered to thank and praise God who always, and without fail, provides all that we need in our lives. During the offertory, traditional offerings of vegetables, tropical fruits, padi, sugarcane and various types of grains, together with Ponggal rice, and the Bread and Wine were offered. Children performed an Indian Cultural dance during the Thanksgiving.

After Mass, everyone proceeded to the parish hall for a traditional Indian breakfast and games organized by the Tamil Apostolate members. Parishioners were invited to be part of the Ponggal celebration to know and appreciate the meaning behind the celebration.