News n Pics : Antony, Barkur
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, June 29.
The celebration was divided into two parts, beginning with a grand eucharistic celebration at the Shrine of St Jude in RT Nagar. Augustine D’Lima, the association's president, warmly welcomed the devotees to the spiritual gathering. Fr Elvis Lewis SJ, the main celebrant of the Mass, delivered a thought-provoking homily. He was accompanied by Fr. George Andrade as co-celebrant. 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 Amber Palace Party hall 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. Elvis Lewis and Fr George Andrade, who joined as chief guests, were welcomed with a bouquet of flowers by the president and vice 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, joint secretary and past president. Augustine D’Lima then officially welcomed the gathering, highlighting the significance of the day for the Barkur community in Bengaluru. His invitation to enjoy a festive meal of ‘pez, lonche and nees’ was funny and thoughtful.
The association also recognized academic excellence among its younger members. Jeslin Amelia Dsouza and Cleon Furtado were honored for their outstanding academic achievements.
Golden couple Jossy and Flavy Sequeira who completed 50 years of marriage were felicitated with a shawl and bouquet and community joined in celebrating their marriage.
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 2024 to Jun 2025, Peter Pinto provided a detailed explanation of the association's financial statements.
The stage event ended with a dance performance by Ancia Dsouza, Sianna Sequeria and Vanessa Dmello. Well presented dance number with many captivating peppy songs cheered up the ambience of the event.
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 program was compered by Antony Prakash, while Shiney Lewis delivered the vote of thanks.