kallianpurdotcom: Mob 9741001849
(News / Photos: Rons Bantwal)
Mumbai, July.06: In a spirit of thanksgiving, unity, and renewed commitment to service, St. Peter’s Association (Barkur), Mumbai, came together on today Sunday to celebrate the Titular Feast of their Patron, St. Peter, at the St Vincent De Pallotti Church Hall, Vijay Nagar, Andheri East. The event was a heart-warming reunion of Barkurians and their well-wishers from across Mumbai and beyond.
The day commenced with a solemn Holy Mass celebrated by Rev. Fr. Juvance Serrao, Redemption Priest from Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Church, Chembur. His meaningful homily and the melodious choir from Holy Cross Church choir group created a spiritually uplifting atmosphere that set the tone for the day.
Rev. Fr. Juvance Serrao, in his thoughtful message, appreciated the Association’s spiritual roots and commitment to service, calling it a model of laity leadership and unity in a fast-paced world.
Words of Welcome and Annual Reflection:
Outgoing President Mr. Boniface (Bony) Sequeira extended a brief and warm welcome address, while Hon. Secretary Mr. Arthur Mendonca presented a concise review of the past year’s achievements, underscoring the Association’s dynamic presence. Celebrating Academic Excellence & Remembering Generous Benefactors. Treasurer Mr. Vincent Furtado led the educational awards segment. The Association gratefully acknowledged the families of the following benevolent donors, whose contributions have supported the academic dreams of deserving students:
In memory of Late Simplen Sequeira – Mrs. Gladys Sequeira, Mr. Archibald Furtado & Family, In memory of Late Henry Roche – Mrs. Ida Roche, Mr. Anthony Gonsalves & Family, In memory of Late Norbert Menezes – Mrs. Hilda Menezes & Family, In memory of Late Wilma Sequeira – Mr. Boniface Sequeira & Family. President Mr. Sequeira and donors honored the student beneficiaries with certificates and tokens of encouragement.
Special Achievement Felicitations – A Moment of Community Pride Mrs. Shirley Gonsalves, daughter of Mr. Felix & Mrs. Benny Barnes (Mulund) and wife of Mr. Antony Gonsalves, was felicitated for her outstanding recognition. Angelina Vivek Sequeira, grand daughter of Mr. Frank Sequeira (Barkur) and daughter of Mr & Mrs Vivek Sequeira, was recognized for winning the Bronze Medal in the Special Olympics South Asia 7-A-side Unified Football Competition.
A Salute to Visionary Leaders – Honouring Outgoing Presidents: A deeply emotional and proud moment came with the felicitation of two towering personalities who led the Association with distinction: Mr. Ivan M. Rebello – Founding member, Former Secretary and President, Mr. Boniface Sequeira – Serving two successful terms as President. Both leaders responded with short but inspiring messages, reminiscing their journey and urging the youth to take the legacy forward.
Mr. Wilfred Sequeira delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, recognising the tireless efforts of organisers, volunteers, donors, and all well-wishers.
The post-liturgy stage programme was ably compeered by Mr. Kiran Carvalho, who brought grace and smooth transitions throughout the proceedings. The event opened with a Novena prayer to St. Peter, led by Mr. Ivan Suaris along with group, followed by a devotional Konkani hymn, “Bhaktha Pathron San Pedru”, invoking blessings of the Patron Saint.
Dignitaries and office-bearers, including Fr. Juvance Serrao, past and present leaders of the Association, were welcomed on stage. The lighting of the ceremonial lamp symbolised the Association’s commitment to unity, faith, and service.
The programme then shifted into a lively entertainment and games session, followed by a sumptuous fellowship lunch, where laughter, camaraderie and nostalgia filled the hall.
Welcoming the New Leadership: A Fresh Chapter:
With a spirit of optimism, the newly elected Executive Committee for 2025–2028 was introduced. Mr. Eric Carvalho, a founding member with over three decades of exemplary service, took charge as President. He was introduced and honoured with shawl and bouquet by the outgoing President and all the former Presidents.
In his first address, President Mr. Carvalho outlined his vision of continuity and innovation, urging unity and participation across generations.
New Team Members:
PresidentMr. Eric Carvalho, Vice Presidents: Mr. Wilfred Sequeira & Mr. John Gonsalves, Secretary: Mr. Arthur Mendonca, Treasurer: Mr. Vincent Furtado, Jt. Secretary: Mr. Joseph D’Almeida, Co-ordinator: Mr. Norman Thimothy D’Souza, Internal Auditor: Mr. Michael D’Almeida.
Tracing a Journey of Service since 1988:
Founded on 17th April 1988, at Victoria Hall, Mahim, SPA Mumbai has evolved over 37 years into one of the most active and respected Mangalorean associations in the city. With its hallmark initiatives in social service, cultural promotion, and educational support, the association continues to be a beacon of hope and pride for the Barkurian community.
In Conclusion:
The St. Peter’s Feast 2025 was more than a celebration – it was a living testimony of faith, legacy, and collective identity. The St. Peter’s Association (Barkur), Mumbai, once again affirmed that when a community stands united in purpose, it continues to create milestones that inspire generations to come. Today SPA not confined only to Mumbai and sub-urbs, it has extended its arms far and near from USA, Europe, Arabian Gulf and to veterans settled in home town Barkur and around. Technology and communication brought all of them virtually together by recalling the smell of Barkurian soil and the blessings of St Peter the Patron.
Disclaimer: Please write your correct name and email address. Kindly do not post any personal, abusive, defamatory, infringing, obscene, indecent, discriminatory or unlawful or similar comments. www.kallianpur.com will not be responsible for any defamatory message posted under this article.
Hence, sending offensive comments using Kallianpur.com will be purely at your own risk, and in no way will kallianpur.com be held responsible.