News : Rion Angelo Arouza and Johnson DAlmeida, Pics : Sion Fernandes.
Barkur, December 31, 2025 – The parishioners of St. Peter's Church in Barkur gathered on New Year's Eve to commemorate the Feast of Mary, Mother of God, and welcome the arrival of 2026 with a special evening mass and community celebrations.
The celebrations commenced with a solemn Adoration service, providing a moment of reflection and prayer as the faithful prepared to enter the new year. This was followed by a special mass that brought together the entire parish community in worship and thanksgiving.
A significant moment during the evening was the oath-taking ceremony for the newly appointed Parish Pastoral Council members and Finance Committee. Joseph Fernandes was sworn in as Vice President, while Sabitha Picardo assumed the role of Secretary. Joseph Elias Fernandes took the oath as Pastoral Council Convenor, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the parish's administrative leadership.
The evening's festivities also included an award ceremony recognizing the creative talents of parishioners in the annual crib competition. Winners were announced at both ward and parish levels, with the parish-level competition yielding impressive results.
The parish-level awards were presented as follows: Ian Matthew D'Souza from Halekody ward secured first place, while Serah and Shanol Lewis from St. Sebastian ward claimed second position. Calista Criston D'Souza of Rosary ward earned third place honors.
The parish extends its congratulations to all winners and participants of the crib competition, and wishes the entire community a blessed and prosperous New Year 2026.