- 17 August, 2025
Udupi, Karnataka, August 16, 2025 – The beloved Konkani hymn Moriye Krista Maye, cherished by generations of Konkani-speaking Christians, has completed 50 years since its composition. Sung in churches, homes, and community gatherings, the hymn has become part of the cultural and spiritual identity of Konkani Catholics worldwide.
Fr. Francis Cornelio composed the hymn in 1974 during his early seminary days at Jeppu Seminary, Mangalore. With the guidance of musical pioneers such as Fr. Walter Albuquerque, the hymn quickly entered the liturgical repertoire and spread across parishes and households.
Over five decades, Moriye Krista Maye transcended diocesan and geographic boundaries, adapted into Goan Konkani, and found resonance among Konkani-speaking communities across India and abroad.
“When I first wrote this hymn, I never imagined it would still be sung after 50 years,” said Fr. Francis, now parish priest of St. Anthony’s Church, Padukone. “It humbles me to know it has become part of the prayer life of so many families. As St Augustine said, ‘He who sings prays twice.’ That truth gives me immense joy and inspires me to continue composing hymns that strengthen the faith of the laity.”
Fr. Francis has since composed more than 100 Konkani liturgical hymns, many regularly sung in churches. In the late 1990s, he partnered with noted Konkani musician Melvin Peris under the Sangeeth Ghar banner, producing nine devotional albums. These included popular titles such as Ga Tum Jibe, Yeiya Gaya, Horsun Gavyan, Kallza Ulo, Dinvas, Stuthi Gavyam, Swadhik Mog, Tuje Kurpen, and Tujea Templant. Several of these hymns remain staples in parishes in India and Gulf countries, arranged musically by Sangeeth Guru Joel Pereira.
Reflecting on present initiatives, Fr. Francis noted: “I have recently started a YouTube channel to bring Konkani liturgical music to the wider community, especially the youth and those living overseas. It allows me to reach more people and share my gift of proclaiming God’s word through music. These works will remain freely accessible through my channel.”
To mark the golden jubilee, young musicians from Udupi and Mangalore collaborated on a special anniversary rendition. Child singer Elsa Angel Fernandes leads the vocals, supported by the Blue Angels Choir, Mangalore, under the music direction of Dolvin Kolalgiri.
The commemorative 50th anniversary video is now available on Fr. Francis Cornelio’s official YouTube channel: Fr. Francis Cornelio
Song: Moriye Krista Maye: Watch here
By Catholic Connect
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