-News n Pics : Alfred Furtado
BARKUR — St. Peter's Church in Barkur came alive with devotion and festivity this weekend as parishioners gathered to mark the holiest occasion in the Christian calendar, celebrating Easter across two solemn yet joyful services.
Easter Vigil — Saturday Night
The celebrations began on Saturday night with the Easter Vigil, drawing a large congregation to a church draped in symbolic darkness, evoking the stillness of Christ's tomb. Parish Priest Fr. Ronald Miranda, joined by Fr. Gilbert DSouza, led the candlelit procession bearing the Paschal candle — the ancient symbol of the risen Christ — as the proclamation "Light of Christ" echoed through the church.
The Liturgy of the Word was followed by the Easter Song, rendered with warmth by Fr. Miranda himself. Fr. DSouza then delivered a sermon that drew praise from the congregation for its depth and inspiration. The faithful renewed their vows of baptism before Fr. Miranda blessed the church with holy water, a gesture of purification and renewal.
In his closing address, Fr. Miranda extended warm greetings to all parishioners of Barkur, including those living abroad, as the congregation exchanged the sign of peace — a fitting close to a night centered on hope and resurrection.
Easter Sunday Mass — Sunday Morning
Easter Sunday morning brought with it an atmosphere of unbridled joy at St. Peter's. Fr. Miranda presided over the Easter Mass before a beaming congregation that filled the flower-adorned church. The festive décor reflected the spirit of the occasion, as worshippers came together to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Fr. DSouza once again took to the pulpit, delivering a homily that was widely appreciated for its relevance and meaning. At the conclusion of Mass, Fr. Miranda addressed the gathering, expressing his gratitude to Barkurians both at home and across the world, before the faithful dispersed, carrying with them Easter greetings and the enduring message of love and renewal.