On Sunday, 15 October 2023, the Feast Our Lady of Fatima was celebrated at St Paul’s Catholic Church in White River, Mbombela. With overcast conditions, attendance was not dampened, having people join from the likes of Lydenburg, Hazyview, Bushbuck Ridge, Malelane, Komatipoort, Nelspruit, Pretoria, and Johannesburg.
The religious ceremony of the Mass in the morning was co-celebrated by Father Manuel and Father Molewe – who was also celebrating his 26th anniversary since becoming a priest. At the end of the Mass, the procession with the statue of Our Lady took place, while the Rosary was being recited.
The festivities then continued outside of the church with dancing by the Portuguese traditional dancers ‘Núcleo de Arte e Cultura’; joining the feast from the south of Johannesburg.
The festivities then continued outside of the church with dancing by the Portuguese traditional dancers ‘Núcleo de Arte e Cultura’; joining the feast from the south of Johannesburg; as well as live entertainment by singers Miguel Pregueiro, Damião de Freitas, and the live band ‘Estrelas da Madeira’, which enthusiastically kept people on the dance floor.
A variety of authentic Portuguese food, such as espetada, chicken, pregos, and bolo de caco was available and thoroughly enjoyed by all. For the children’s entertainment, there was a jumping castle, face painting, and balloons given by an entertaining clown. A local parishioner also brought along his pet, a 50 year old tortoise, allowing the children to interact and learn more about it. To ensure that money could be raised and also for people to not walk away empty handed, both a raffle and auction was held. One such winner was Juan Gonsalves, who’s winning bid won him this useful cutlery set. Studio Locita 360 team captured the moments on camera and video. Three members from Portuguese Forum namely Cynthia and Cezarina Freitas and Tony Duarte enjoyed the day.
Congratulations to Charmaine Gonçalves and her team for all the organisation and planning of this successful event. Such a Feast helps to enrich the communities’ faith, encourages the community to come together and socialise, and for people to enjoy the wonderful Portuguese hospitality. If you are a fan of good food, amazing company, and dancing, then the White River Feast is something you need to add to your yearly calendar.
Cezarina Freitas
