Priest Behind Harihar Shrine's Elevation to Basilica Dies in Road Accident

Shivamogga, July 23, 2024: In a devastating turn of events, Fr. Anthony Peter (51), a dedicated priest and driving force behind the elevation of the Harihar Shrine to a Minor Basilica, in Karnataka lost his life in a tragic road accident involving a KSRTC bus and his car on Tuesday 23 July 2024.

Fr. Anthony Peter, parish priest at St. Theresa Little Flower of Jesus Church in Shikaripura, was traveling from Shivamogga to Shikaripura after completing his work when the accident occurred. Bro. Stephen, who was accompanying him, sustained serious injuries and is currently admitted to Nanjappa Hospital, Shivamogga.

The funeral of Fr.Anthony Peter will be held on Friday, 26 July 2024, at 10 am at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Shivamogga.

During his tenure at Our Lady of Health, Minor Basilica, from 2016 to 2023, Fr. Anthony Peter worked tirelessly alongside Bishop Francis Serrao, S.J. to elevate the Harihar Shrine to a Minor Basilica, a feat achieved through the approval of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India in its Plenary Assembly meeting held in January 2019.

Born on 07 January 1973, to Mr Kantharaj and Mrs Susaimary, Fr Anthony Peter was a shining example of devotion and compassion. His ordination was on 04 May 2004, marked the beginning of a promising journey, cut short far too soon.

A scholar, shepherd, and gifted preacher, Fr Anthony Peter held a doctorate in liturgy from Rome, and his pastoral experience spanned several esteemed positions, including Assistant at St Thomas Church, Davanagere, Parish Priest of St Anthony Church, Karehalli, and Rector of Our Lady of Health, Minor Basilica Harihar. Presently, he was the Parish Priest of St Theresa of Child Jesus Church, Shikaripura.

Bishop Francis Serrao of Shimoga recalled Fr Anthony Peter:: "His powerful soul stirring sermons and sonorous singing had captivated the hearts of many, and his exceptional organizational skills had made him a beloved leader."

His spiritual guidance and community service earned him deep respect during his time at the Harihara Basilica. His passing leaves a void in the Shimoga diocese, where he was beloved for his selfless contributions.

By Joicy Pinto