Media Release
Bengaluru, Jul 8: The St Peter’s Association (Barkur) Bengaluru marked a significant day in its calendar as it celebrated its annual feast day honoring patron saint St Peter. The event which took place on Sunday, July 7, was a vibrant display of faith, community spirit, and cultural heritage.
The celebration was divided into two parts, beginning with a grand eucharistic celebration at the Shrine of St Jude in RT Nagar. Felix Menezes, the association's president, warmly welcomed the devotees to the spiritual gathering. Fr George Andrade, the main celebrant of the Mass, delivered a thought-provoking homily that emphasized the importance of trust in family values. The D'Souza family from Devanahalli added a melodious touch to the ceremony by conducting the choir, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere of the occasion.
Following the Mass, the community gathered at Patels Inn & Resorts in RT Nagar for the second part of the celebration, which included a get-together and the annual general meeting (AGM). The stage programme commenced with a captivating welcome dance performed by Shayna and Shalvia, setting a festive tone for the event.
Fr George Andrade, serving as the chief guest, was welcomed with a bouquet of flowers by the president. The formal inauguration of the program was marked by the traditional lighting of the lamp, a ceremony participated in by the chief guest, president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer. Felix Menezes then officially welcomed the gathering, highlighting the significance of the day for the Barkur community in Bengaluru.
A key highlight of the event was the honoring of various achievers within the community. Fr George Andrade, celebrating a remarkable 50 years of priesthood, was felicitated with a shawl and bouquet. In his acceptance speech, Fr Andrade expressed his gratitude to god and all those who supported him throughout his journey in the priesthood.
The association also recognized academic excellence among its younger members. Joel Melroy Pinto, Shalon Michael Fernandes, Venissa D'Souza, Adeline Sheetal Pinto, and Aaron Chris D'Souza were honored for their outstanding academic achievements, showcasing the community's commitment to education and youth development.
In a touching moment of remembrance, the gathering observed a minute of silence for two departed souls, Fr Patrick Crasta and Fr Valerian Mendonsa, honoring their contributions to the community.
The event seamlessly transitioned into the AGM, skillfully conducted by Peter Pinto alongside the president. Marina Furtado presented the minutes from the previous AGM, while Monica Pinto delivered the secretary's report covering activities from July 2023 to July 2024, Augustine D'Lima, the treasurer, provided a detailed explanation of the association's financial statements.
Following these proceedings, the current committee was dissolved, paving the way for the formation of a new committee. Augustine D'Lima, elected as the new president, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity and called for the community's continued support in his acceptance speech.
The association also welcomed four new families, introduced by Savitha Furtado, demonstrating the growing strength and appeal of the Barkur community in Bengaluru.
The celebration, which saw participation from approximately 150 members, concluded with a fellowship lunch, providing an opportunity for community bonding and networking.
The success of the event was made possible by the dedicated efforts of several members including Alwyn Pinto, Deepak D'Lima, Chethan D'Silva, Daniel Pinto, Melvin Pinto, Gilbert D'Souza, and Gladson D'Souza, who took on various responsibilities in organizing the celebration. The programme was expertly compered by Antony Prakash, Raina D'Souza, and Ancia Christel, while Leera Menezes delivered the vote of thanks.
This annual feast day celebration not only honored St Peter but also served as a testament to the strong community bonds and rich cultural heritage of the Barkur people in Bengaluru. It highlighted their commitment to preserving traditions while embracing progress and excellence in various fields, from spirituality to academics.