Soaked in faith, Goa's islanders celebrate feast of St Peter

ISLAND OF TRADITION

The picturesque Divar Island is seeped in heritage and culture. These are in full display in one of its Wards - Vittozem - during the celebration of Feast of St Peter on June 29.

POMP & GRANDEUR

Here, the local community celebrated the feast with pomp and grandeur. This ceremonial feast is in the honour of St Peter, considered the patron of the fishing community.

PROCESSION OF FAITH

The festivities begin with religious services, after which the idol of St Peter is carried in a procession to the nearest ferry point.

THANKSGIVING TO SAINT

Then, the idol of St Peter is placed inside a decked up Sangodd - created by tying together two canoes. The festival is celebrated as a thanksgiving to the saint, and to seek his blessing.

CULTURAL FERRY RIDE

Once the villagers are aboard the ferry, a cultural program awaits them.

DIVINE INTERVENTION

The Sangodd and the ferry circumnavigate the island of Divar, symbolising seeking blessings for the saint's intercession and prosperity in their business.

NEARBY ISLANDERS JOIN IN

People from neighbouring islands like Vanxim wait to join in the celebration and seek the saint's blessings.

MUSIC, DANCE & FEAST

There is merriment all around, on the ferry, with feisty dancing to traditional music, played by one-man band, and refreshment.

SOAKED IN DEVOTION

And, as heavy rains beat down, undeterred, the boats and canoes circle around the island, with everyone soaked in enduring faith and devotion.

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