Media Release

Udupi, Jun 29: The Titular Feast of St Peter, the glorious patron of St Peter Church, Barkur, was celebrated with great devotion, fellowship, and splendour on Sunday, June 29.

After several years, the feast joyfully fell on a Sunday, attracting a large gathering of parishioners, families, and guests from near and far. This year’s celebration was especially significant with the reopening and blessing of the newly renovated 'Sauharda Community Hall', a proud addition to the parish infrastructure.

The highlight of the day was the festal Mass, concelebrated by Monsignor Ferdinand Gonsalves, vicar general of the Udupi diocese, rector of Milagres Cathedral, along with the chancellor of the diocese, Fr Stephan D’Souza as the main celebrant. They were joined by priests from Kallianpur varado Dr Roque D’Souza, Fr Vincent Crasta CESU, Fr Steevan Fernandes and other invited clergy from neighbouring parishes. Interestingly few Barkur born, sons of soil - Fr Alphonse D’Lima, Fr Ivan D’Almeida, Fr Rohan D’Almeida graced the occasion.

Before the Eucharist, parish priest Fr Ronald Miranda reverently distributed blessed candles to donors, sponsors, and well-wishers, acknowledging their generous contributions and support.

As the entrance hymn Somya Tuja Navaan resonated through the church, it was beautifully rendered by the parish choir team led by Eric Soans, setting the tone for a spiritually uplifting celebration.

The homily, delivered by the main celebrant, reflected profoundly on the life, faith journey, and mission of Apostle Peter — from being a humble fisherman to becoming the rock on which Christ built his church. The faithful were inspired to emulate St Peter’s zeal, humility, and commitment to Christ by strengthening our faith in the footsteps of St Peter.

At the end of the Mass, festal greetings were extended to all, and Fr Ronald Miranda offered his heartfelt thanks to all present and conveyed blessings and good wishes to parishioners residing afar. Vicar general honoured special donors, pirjent family Maxim Sequeira and students who excelled in the just concluded SSLC and PU Board Exam with cash prizes.

Following the Eucharist, the congregation joyfully gathered in front of the newly refurbished Sauharda Community Hall for its official reopening and blessing. The facility has been upgraded with modern amenities, elegant interiors, and a welcoming façade, enhancing its utility and appearance.

During the august presence of priests, guests and parishioners the renovated Hall blessed by Monsignor Ferdinand Gonsalves, marking a moment of deep appreciation and gratitude, by remembering all involved and contributed for the project.

Jossie Fernandes, vice president of the parish pastoral council, along with other council members and volunteers, played a key role in coordinating the event and ensuring the success of both the feast and the hall inauguration.

All attendees were served refreshments, and the arrangements reflected the thoughtful planning and collective effort of parish associations and volunteers. Notably, the festal Mass was telecast online, allowing many parishioners, especially those abroad, to join spiritually in the celebrations.