(Photo /News: Rons Bantwal)
Mumbai, July 07: Mutual acquaintances foster close relationships. Such practices contribute to unity in the crop on a daily basis. Equal relations are the impetus for the advancement of community, society, culture, and heritage. It is commendable that the Barkur people of Mumbai have also practiced this and are strong enough to rule over half of Mumbai, said Fr Ronald Miranda, parish priest, St Peter's Church Barkur.
St Peter's Association Barkur (Mumbai) celebrated the 34th annual festival of its patron saint Saint Peter in a grand manner at Vincent de Pallotti Church Hall in Marol Vijayanagar, Andheri East here on Sunday, July 7. For the celebratory programme, there was a lamp-lit drive, Miranda said.
In the beginning the annual festival was celebrated with thanksgiving mass by Fr Ronald Miranda. Blessed Symon was given by Dhyana Ashram. Goa superintendent Fr Dr Ivan Almeida, a native from Barkur preached at mass about faith. Pramila Fernandez, Joseph Almeida, Renee Suarez. Eric Carvalho, Janet Carvalho and Frieda Moras assisted in the liturgie.
Later, in a celebration programme presided over by Bonifus Sequeira, president of the Association, at the Church auditorium, Fr Ronald Miranda and Fr Dr Ivan Almeida Barkur was the special guest. Henry Roche, Norbert Menezes, Anthony Gonsalves, Archibald Furtado presented the annual talent award sponsored by the members' children and felicitated them and conveyed a festive message to all.
Former SPA presidents Felix Barnes, Richard Carvalho, current vice president Wilfred Sequeira and Eric Carvalho, secretary Arthur Mendonza, treasurer Vincent Furtado, secretary Joseph Almeida, internal auditor Michael Almeida were seated on the dais. The congregation paid tribute to Fr Valerian Mendonza, who served in Barkur Church and passed away last week. Ida Henry Roche offered a condolence message to Fr Valerian and prayed for his soul.
Former and current office bearers and executive committee and members of SPA including renowned film director Harry Fernandes Barkur and Ivan Suvares were present in the programme. Organization members and children entertained those present with dance, songs and skits. Kiran R Carvalho hosted the entertainment.
The celebration began with the eulogy of Saint Peter. Bonifus Sequeira welcome the gathering. Later, the president and office bearers honored the guests with floral tributes. Joylan Fernandes hosted the programme. Wilfred Sequeira recited the list of meritorious persons and proposed a vote of thanks. The programme was preceded by the SPA Annual General Meeting.