-Prof.Peter Archibald Furtado
They say history has a way of repeating itself – and in the story of St. Peter’s Association (SPA), Mumbai, this couldn’t be more true.
It was in 2018 when my classmate and dear friend Ivan M. Rebello took over the reins as SPA President. I still remember the overwhelming pride that surged through us – the former ICYM members – as one of our own took charge of this prestigious association. Fast forward to 2025, and history has indeed repeated itself, as Eric Lawrence Carvalho, another dynamic CYM product, ascends as one of SPA’s youngest Presidents.
For decades, the top post at SPA was traditionally entrusted to senior and seasoned Barkurians – stalwarts like Augustine D’Silva, Simplen Sequeira, Felix Barnes, Henry Roche, Richard Carvalho, Peter Furtado, and Boniface Sequeira – who, with their leadership and dedication, kept the Barkurian spirit alive and soaring high in Mumbai. Their contribution remains unmatched and deserves every bit of our admiration and gratitude.
However, as I reflect deeper, one truth becomes evident – while Presidents are remembered and celebrated in history, the success of any organization also rests heavily on the shoulders of those behind the scenes – especially Secretaries (not because I was one, about 36 years ago in 1988) and Treasurers, who often work silently but significantly to ensure seamless functioning, even this day.
It brings back fond memories of the time I left SPA to pursue my career in Muscat. I recall with pride how Vincent D’Almeida took charge as Secretary – a responsibility he shouldered with great competence. His efforts, along with his teams, bore fruits that the community continues to enjoy even today. This legacy was carried forward by Ivan Rebello, for 17 long years, Eric Carvalho, about 5 years and more recently, Arthur Mendonca, over the past three years – all proud sons of ICYM Barkur.
While a few capable contemporaries missed the opportunity to lead or chose to stay away from the limelight, there's no denying that SPA is a living legacy of ICYM Barkur’s vibrant spirit. The values instilled through CYM continue to bear testimony in the leadership, camaraderie, and commitment seen in today’s young and energetic SPA team.
New Team Members:
Vice Presidents: Mr. Wilfred Sequeira & Mr. John Gonsalves
Secretary: Mr. Arthur Mendonca
Treasurer: Mr. Vincent Furtado
Joint Secretary: Mr. Joseph D’Almeida
Coordinator: Mr. Norman Timothy D’Souza
Internal Auditor: Mr. Michael D’Almeida
On a personal note, I extend my warmest congratulations to Eric Lawrence Carvalho as he takes up this mantle with confidence, backed by a capable and enthusiastic team. It feels almost like divine providence that during the forthcoming Golden Jubilee celebrations of CYM Barkur, one of its own is leading the ever-flourishing SPA in the heart of India’s dream city – Mumbai.
Indeed, SPA’s past is glorious, its present promising, and its future bright – all thanks to the enduring legacy of CYM Barkur and the great priests who trained them, over the years, since September 1976, from founder Bishop His Excellency Henry DSouza.....
P. Archibald Furtado (First Secretary of SPA – Barkur – Mumbai.)