-News n Pics : Archibald Furtado
Mumbai, July 5, 2026 — Barkurians from across Mumbai gathered at St. John Evangelist Church, Marol, Andheri (East), to celebrate the Patronal Feast of St. Peter, the annual highlight on the calendar of St. Peter's Association (Barkur), Mumbai, which has served the community since 1988.
For Barkurians settled far from home, the feast is a cherished ritual. While the Titular Feast is observed with grandeur in Barkur itself on June 29, communities of Barkur origin in Mumbai, Bengaluru, the UAE and the United States hold their own celebrations on the following Sunday — an occasion to honour their patron saint and revisit shared roots.
Despite heavy rain and localised flooding across the city that morning, members turned out in strong numbers, a fact President Eric L. Carvalho noted with evident pride as he welcomed the gathering. He spoke of the importance of sustaining the cultural, spiritual and social ties that bind Barkurians living in Mumbai.
A Morning of Devotion
The event opened with introductory remarks by Joylan Fernandes, followed by the recitation of the St. Peter Novena led by Nirmala Rebello. The congregation then joined in singing the Konkani hymn "San Pedru Mogala," led by Ivan Suaris and his team, seeking the blessings of their patron saint.
Guests of honour escorted to the dais included Rev. Dr. Ivon D'Almeida, a priest of Barkur origin; President Eric Carvalho; and several former Presidents, Vice Presidents and office bearers of the Association.
Recognising Merit and Achievement
A centrepiece of the celebration was the distribution of Educational Awards, where high-performing students linked to the Association received cash prizes and certificates. Treasurer Vincent Furtado read out the names of the award recipients, with senior members presenting the honours to encourage academic excellence among the community's youth.
The Association also felicitated Joylan Fernandes for his achievements in sports. Vice President John Gonsalves introduced the tribute, after which Rev. Fr. Ivon D'Almeida presented a memento, former President Boniface Sequeira offered a traditional shawl, and former President Felix Barnes presented a bouquet. Members responded with sustained applause in recognition of his accomplishments.
Looking Ahead to the Ruby Jubilee
Secretary Arthur Mendonca updated members on the Association's ongoing activities and shared plans for the future, with particular focus on preparations for the Ruby Jubilee in 2028 — an anniversary the Association hopes to mark by deepening unity, community service and youth involvement.
Vice President Wilfred Sequeira closed the formal proceedings with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the chief guest, office bearers, donors, volunteers and members whose efforts made the celebration possible.
Notable Guests
Among those present were businessmen Harry Buthello and Clement Lobo, the latter also known as a Konkani singer and musical organiser; media personality Rons Bantwal; and Sr. Jyothi D'Almeida, a Holy Cross sister of Barkur origin based in Goa.
The formal programme gave way to entertainment led by Anola Martis, and the evening continued with fellowship and festivity among attendees.
A Community Rooted in Faith
Since its founding in 1988, St. Peter's Association (Barkur), Mumbai has worked to keep faith, unity, education and cultural heritage alive among Barkurians in the city. This year's Patronal Feast once again reaffirmed those values, reinforcing bonds of friendship and fraternity across the community.
