Prof. P. Archibald Furtado,
Barkur Church was filled to its capacity on Thursday, June 29, 2023, as faithful congregated to express gratitude to the Almighty for the abundant favors and blessings received through their venerated patron, Apostle Peter.
The day's festivities commenced at approximately 10:15 am with the recognition and honor bestowed upon various donors and main sponsors, the Fernandes family, represented by Mrs. Lucy Fernandes and Kachhur. They presented candles as a token of their support. The well-prepared Choir, led by their Choir Master Eric Soans, set the tone for the liturgy with a captivating entrance hymn.
The procession into the church was a grand affair, with the main celebrant, Rev. Fr. Robert DSouza, Principal of Lourdes High School in Bejai, Mangalore, leading the way. Accompanying him were Very Rev. Fr. Valerian Mendonca, Rector and Vicar Vara of the Kallianpur deanery, former parish priest Rev. Fr. Philip Neri Aranha, numerous priests from the region's parishes, as well as a few guest priests. The melodious tunes played by the brass band team added to the festive atmosphere.
Assistant and resident priest, Rev. Fr. Rolwin Fernandes, delivered a brief introduction underscoring the significance of the feast and extended a warm welcome to all those in attendance.
In his eloquent homily, Rev. Fr. Robert DSouza focused on the transformation of Simon the fisherman into Peter, the rock on which Jesus planned to build His Church. Through carefully chosen anecdotes, he emphasized the importance of remaining devoted to God and fostering unity in families, wards, and the parish as a whole. Rev. Fr. DSouza also shared a miraculous event he personally experienced. By devoutly reciting the Novena of St. Peter, given to him by the former Vicar of Barkur, Rev. Fr. Valerian, a chapel was constructed in Permannur, uniting a small community of Catholic families predominantly involved in the fishing profession. These devout Catholics residing along the shores of the Arabian Sea serve as living witnesses to the benevolent care of Jesus through His disciple, St. Peter.
A special highlight of the day's celebration was the Creed, sung flawlessly and led by the recently appointed vicar, Rev. Fr. Ronald Miranda. The faithful were transported to another realm by the beauty and effectiveness of the performance, accompanied by the talented Choir team. Every detail was meticulously arranged to engage all those present.
Following the conclusion of the Holy Mass, Rev. Fr. Ronald Miranda, the new vicar, took the opportunity to extend heartfelt wishes for a joyous feast to all parishioners, whether present in the church, at home, or elsewhere. Despite having served for less than a month, he expressed his contentment at witnessing the devotion and dedication of the parishioners, both near and far, as one united parish community. Rev. Fr. Miranda also expressed gratitude to the Parish Pastoral Council and various pious organizations for their support and cooperation. He extended a warm invitation to all Barkurians settled in Mumbai to partake in the upcoming Patron Feast at St Vincent Paloty Church in Andheri, Mumbai, scheduled for Sunday, July 2.
Very Rev Fr Valerian Mendonca, who previously served as Vicar of Barkur, took a moment to reminisce about his wonderful five years in the parish as he extended festive greetings to all Barkurians. Representing the main celebrant and the attending priests, Fr Valerian expressed his appreciation for the active participation of the youth and children in the choir and other liturgical services during the day's event. He expressed his hope that this positive trend would continue, with the elders graciously stepping back to encourage and support the younger generation.
In the spirit of the occasion, the 'Pirjenth Fernandes Family' generously organized a distribution of sweets to all those gathered after the Holy Mass. The parishioners seized the opportunity to exchange warm greetings and share in the joy of the Patron's Feast, creating a truly festive atmosphere around the Church. The day's celebrations were further enhanced by the fact that it coincided with a public holiday, attracting the participation of both the young and the elderly, who came together in unity to make the occasion a unique and joyous celebration.
As the memories of this special day lingered in the hearts of the Barkur community, the Former Vicar's words of gratitude and encouragement served as a reminder of the importance of collective participation and support in fostering a vibrant and inclusive parish life.
