News n Pics Antony DSouza
A thanksgiving service was organized by St. Peter's Association (Barkur) Bangalore to mark the birth centenary of the Servant of God Fr. Alfred Roche on March 16, 2025. The service was held at Sachchidananda, the Provincialate of the Capuchins at Rajaji Nagar, Bangalore. Around 75 Barkurians and devotees joined the service and a short event thereafter.
The service began with a welcome note by Mr. Augustine D Lima, President of the association. He welcomed the attendees.
Rev. Fr. Santa Lopez presided over the Mass. During his homily he explained event of transfiguration and how Fr. Alfred Roche lived it. He also fondly remembered late Fr. Patrick Crasta, had who relentlessly worked for the cause of Fr. Alfred Roche. Choir by D’Souza family Devanahalli added divine lustre to the mass.
After the mass, Mr. James Sequeira, gave his personal account of Fr. Alfred Roche recalling the day of Fr. Alfred's first mass at Barkur, how he lived an exemplary life by helping the needy in parishes he served and eventually being ordained as 'Servant of God’.
Fr. Santa Lopez presented a report of developments in the cause of Servant of God Fr. Alfred Roche, starting with formation of the Fr. Alfred Roche Trust, registration of the land at Kudru ward of Barkur, inauguration of the monument of honor and centenary celebrations to name a few. He expressed his gratitude to all those involved in organizing the thanksgiving Service, emphasizing its pivotal role in garnering support for the noble cause, with the ultimate aspiration of advancing Fr. Alfred's journey towards Beatification. He also invited the gathering for celebrations at Brahamavar in April.
Fr. Alwyn Dias, Provincial, explained the process of Beatification and requested support of devotees to further the cause.
In her vote of thanks, Mrs. Monica Pinto, Secretary of the association, acknowledged the efforts that had made the event possible. The gathering ended with fellowship lunch.
The Thanksgiving Service stood as a poignant testament to the enduring legacy of Fr. Alfred Roche, inspiring all those in attendance to emulate his profound dedication to serving humanity and fostering spiritual enlightenment. As the echoes of the hymns faded into the ether, the spirit of Fr. Alfred continued to illuminate the hearts and minds of all those touched by his benevolent presence.