Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru (JD)
Bengaluru, Jul 10: St Peter's Association (Barkur) Bengaluru joyously celebrated their Patron feast at St Jude's Church, R T Nagar on Sunday, July 9. The auspicious event commenced with a solemn High Mass officiated by Fr George Andrade and Fr Patrick Crasta. The D'Souza family from Devanahalli led the choir.
Felix Menezes, the president, warmly welcomed the esteemed congregation, while Shiney Lewis expressed heartfelt gratitude to all attendees, appreciating their presence and participation.
Following the Mass, the association meticulously arranged an Annual General Meeting (AGM) and fellowship at the Blue Pearl Banquet Hall, R T Nagar. Shayna Monis and Shavia Fernandes performed a welcome dance, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Anthony D'Souza served as the program's compere, and Peter Pinto, the former president, welcomed the gathering. Dr Kamal Prasad was the chief guest, accompanied by Fr George Andrade and Fr Patrick Crasta as esteemed guests of honor. Augustine D'lima introduced Dr Kiran Prasad, the other chief guest, and Fr George Andrade, the guest of honor.
Fr George Andrade eloquently addressed the audience, emphasizing the significance of forgiveness in our lives. His insightful words shed light on the transformative power of forgiveness and its profound impact on personal growth and relationships. Additionally, Dr Kiran Prasad fondly reminisced about his time in Barkur and highlighted the remarkable talents that have emerged from St Peter's Church, Barkur.
Lexin Sequeira announced the awardees and provided an overview of their remarkable achievements. The honored recipients, Jeslyn Amelia D'Souza for securing 94.66% in the 10th standard ICSC examination, Michelle Denita Pinto for securing 82% in B.Com Analytics, Thamara Rose Furtado for securing 1st place in the Catechism examination conducted at Sophia High School, and Sweezal Furtdao for being crowned as Miss Teen Universal 2023 Pageant held in Peru, were honored on the occasion. They received a dignified shawl and a commemorative plaque presented by Dr Kamal Prasad, Fr George Andrade, Fr Patrick Crasta, and the President.
The event also included the honoring of Cynthia and William Lewis, as well as Veronica (Veena) and Srinivasan couples, who celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, marking an extraordinary journey together.
Janet Rego introduced the new members, extending a warm welcome to each individual.
The proceedings continued with the solemn blessing of the food by Fr Patrick Crasta, followed by the commencement of the Annual General Body Meeting. Peter Pinto, in collaboration with President Felix Menezes, skillfully conducted the meeting, ensuring its smooth progression. Marina Furtado diligently read the minutes from the previous AGM, providing a comprehensive overview of the discussions and decisions made. Additionally, Monica Pinto presented the secretary's report, summarizing the activities and accomplishments from July 2022 to July 2023.
Augustine D'lima presented the statement of accounts, which was subsequently approved by the attentive crowd. To express gratitude for the successful gathering, Alwyn Pinto delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions and support of all attendees. Finally, the program concluded with a delightful fellowship lunch, fostering a sense of togetherness and camaraderie among the participants.