News P. Archibald Furtado. Pics : Rishon Barnes
December 19, 2023 : In a jubilant continuation of the annual parish feast celebrations, the Barkur Church dedicated to Apostle St Peter reverberated with the harmonious Evening Prayers, known as Vespers, commencing at 7:00 pm on this Tuesday, the 19th of December, 2023.
As the adorned statue of the Patron Saint led a spirited procession around the church, accompanied by a melodic brass band, the solemn prayer service commenced around 7:15 pm. The cohesive Choir team, under the guidance of Eric Soans, set a devotional tone with the entrance hymn, enveloping the faithful in a spiritual ambiance.
Guiding the congregation through the evening's reflections was the main celebrant, Reverend Father Alwyn Sequeira, OCD, editor of the Uzwaad Konkani fortnightly of the Udupi Diocese. In his insightful homily, he urged the attendees to emulate the exemplary lives of two holy men, St Peter and St John the Baptist, advocating obedience to divine commands and a life steeped in sanctity and charity. Drawing poignant examples, Father Alwyn spoke eloquently, resonating simplicity and effectiveness.
Following the exposition of the Holy Sacrament and prayers, Reverend Father Ronald Miranda, the parish priest, took a moment to extend festive greetings to the multitude gathered. Overwhelmed by the substantial turnout, Father Ronald expressed gratitude and invited everyone to tomorrow's festivities and the evening cultural program.
Very Reverend Father Valerian Mendonca, the Dean of the Varado and Rector of Milagres Cathedral, added to the joyous atmosphere by conveying festive greetings to Barkur's assembly, both locally and across borders. Reflecting on his past service as the parish priest in Barkur, Father Valerian acknowledged the growth of the youth from his time, now described as "tall and strong soldiers." He lauded the Barkurians for making a positive impact wherever they are, be it Mumbai, Bangalore, UAE, Muscat, or even in the US.
The evening service saw the active participation of numerous priests from the Vicariate of Kallianpur, esteemed guests, Barkur-born priests, and a large contingent of enthusiastic friends and well-wishers.
The grand culmination of these festivities awaits the congregation tomorrow, 20th December, 2023 with a Thanks giving Festal High Mass at 10:30 am. Reverend Father Philip Neri Aranha, the former Vicar, will preside as the Main Celebrant, adding a poignant touch to the concluding moments of this joyous celebration.
