-Herbert Joseph Menezes
BARKUR, April 14, 2025 - The St. Peter's Church in Barkur witnessed a momentous occasion yesterday as the parish community came together to honor Jeston Dias, who recently secured the 9th rank at the state level in Karnataka's Pre-University Course (PUC) second-year science stream examinations. The felicitation ceremony was conducted following the Palm Sunday Mass, adding spiritual significance to the celebration of academic excellence.
Jeston, who scored an impressive 98.5% in the examinations, received recognition from church leaders and parish representatives in a ceremony that highlighted the community's commitment to celebrating educational achievements. A student of Poornaprajna College in Udupi, Jeston has brought immense pride to his hometown of Bennekudru, Barkur.
The felicitation was presided over by Rev. Fr. Vincent Crasta, Director of Anugraha Pastoral Center, Udupi Diocese, who specially attended the ceremony to congratulate the young achiever. Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Ronald Miranda led the proceedings alongside key parish council members, including Vice President Mr. Jossie Fernandes, Secretary Mr. Eric L. Soans, Mr. Herald D'Souza, who serves as the Convener of Various Councils, Irene Cardoza, Head of Educational Council.
"Jeston's achievement is not just a personal victory but an inspiration for all young students in our community," remarked Fr. Miranda during the ceremony. "His dedication and perseverance exemplify the values we hope to instill in all our youth."
The ceremony recognized not only Jeston's individual merit but also acknowledged the strong academic foundation provided by his parents, Mrs. Charlotte and Mr. James Dias, both educators by profession. Their influence has clearly been pivotal in shaping their children's academic journey.
This achievement adds another chapter to the family's distinguished academic legacy. The parish community fondly remembers how Jeston's elder sister, Jeswita Dias, had secured the 2nd rank at the state level in the same examinations just two years ago. The siblings' consecutive accomplishments have established a remarkable tradition of excellence within the family.
"We are witnessing a beautiful example of how parental guidance and community support can nurture extraordinary talent," said Fr. Crasta while addressing the gathering. "Jeston's success story should encourage other parents to prioritize education and moral values in raising their children."
During the felicitation, Jeston was presented with a memento and a certificate of appreciation amidst applause from the congregation. Several community elders also shared their blessings and words of encouragement with the young scholar.
When given an opportunity to speak, Jeston expressed gratitude to his parents, teachers, and the parish community for their constant support. "This recognition from my own community means more to me than the rank itself," he said. "I hope to continue making you all proud in my future endeavors."
The ceremony concluded with a community prayer for Jeston's future academic pursuits, followed by refreshments for all attendees. Parish council members indicated that such recognitions would continue to be part of their community tradition to motivate younger generations toward academic excellence.
As the news of Jeston's felicitation spreads throughout the region, educational institutions in neighboring areas have also expressed interest in inviting him to share his success story with their students, further extending the impact of his remarkable achievement.