Report & Photos: Rons Bantwal
Mumbai, Jul 5: Patron saint celebrations should not merely be occasions of festivity but should inspire people to embrace social responsibility, strengthen unity and compassion, and nurture educational excellence, Fr Dr Ivan D'Almeida (SFX), principal of Pilar Theological College, Pilar-Goa, said while addressing the 38th Annual Feast of St Peter's Association, Barkur (Mumbai). The annual feast was celebrated with religious fervour, community spirit and cultural splendour on Sunday at the St John the Evangelist Church Hall, Marol, Andheri, bringing together members of the Barkur Catholic community in a vibrant celebration of faith, fellowship and service.
Delivering the homily and feast message, Fr D'Almeida said that St Peter, though a humble fisherman, became an enduring example of unwavering faith, continuous learning and dedicated service.
"St Peter was a humble fisherman whose life continues to inspire generations. Following his example, we must cultivate unity, kindness and mutual cooperation while recognising our responsibility towards society. His commitment to lifelong learning and wisdom should continue to guide our Association in its pursuit of educational excellence and inspire young minds to walk the path of righteousness. Such celebrations should strengthen our resolve to build a progressive future founded on moral values. Relationships endure far longer than achievements; therefore, let our faith itself become our greatest achievement," he said.
The celebrations commenced with a solemn Eucharistic celebration, which was concelebrated by Fr Dr Ivan D'Almeida, who also preached the homily and invoked God's blessings upon the congregation.
The Prayers of the Faithful were led by Rennie Ivan Suarez, Janet Carvalho, Joan Gonsalves, Freeda Moras, Veera Gonsalves, Pramila Fernandes, Rita Suarez, Sr Jyothi D'Almeida, Rosy D'Almeida and Felsy Suarez, while the liturgy was enriched by devotional hymns rendered by Edwin Augustine Suarez, Sunita A Suarez, Telma James D'Sa and Prashanth Serrao.
The festive gathering that followed in the parish hall was presided over by Eric Carvalho, president of St Peter's Association. Fr Dr Ivan D'Almeida attended as the chief guest. Sharing the dais were former Association presidents Richard Carvalho, Ivan Rebello and Boniface Sequeira; vice-presidents Wilfred Sequeira and Joan L Gonsalves; secretary Arthur Mendonca; and treasurer Vincent Furtado, all of whom conveyed their feast greetings.
Extending his greetings on behalf of the Association, president Eric Carvalho said, "On the happy occasion of the Annual Feast of our Patron Saint, St Peter, I extend my heartfelt greetings to one and all. May the unwavering faith and steadfast witness of St Peter continue to deepen our spiritual lives and strengthen our religious commitment. May this annual celebration fill every home with happiness, and may the blessings of our Patron Saint remain upon our Association and upon every member of your families."
One of the highlights of the celebration was the special felicitation accorded to Joylan Fernandes, an active Association member and national-level gold medallist, in recognition of his outstanding sporting achievement. He was honoured with a shawl, bouquet and memento amid warm applause.