USA Bureau

The Bangladesh Christian Association (BCA) Inc., Maryland, recently hosted its vibrant and festive Annual Summer Picnic 2026 in a joyful atmosphere.

The day-long event took place at the picturesque Heron & Osprey Shelter in Sandy Point State Park, Annapolis, drawing a large gathering of Bangladeshi families, guests, and well-wishers from the DMV (DC, Maryland, and Virginia) metropolitan area.

Running from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, the program featured a lively mix of delicious food, games for children and adults alike, cultural performances, musical entertainment, and warm family fellowship. With the enthusiastic participation of attendees ranging from children to seniors, the entire gathering transformed into a lively reunion.

A special segment was held at noon to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States' independence, during which participants celebrated the milestone while expressing respect and well wishes for the nation.

The event was graced by former BCA presidents and members of the advisory council. Retired Auxiliary Bishop of Dhaka Theotonius Gomes, CSC, attended as the chief guest, while Brother Luke Ranjan Purification, CSC, from Bangladesh joined as a special guest. Also present was Anis Ahmed, president of the Bangladeshi American Council Inc. and former commissioner for the Maryland Governor's AAPI and SAA Commissions, who delivered a special congratulatory message on behalf of honorable Maryland General Assembly Delegate Lesley Lopez.

Other notable guests and community leaders included Ekattor Foundation Chief Kabir Patwary and East County Citizens Advisory Board Chair Radwan Chowdhury. The day-long program was hosted by Association Secretary Bibhas Rozario.

A major highlight of this year's picnic was a raffle featuring over 30 attractive prizes commemorating BCA's 30-year journey. Winners were announced in various stages throughout the day, generating immense excitement and enthusiasm among attendees.

BCA leaders remarked that the annual summer picnic is much more than a recreational gathering; it serves as a vital platform to strengthen mutual goodwill, brotherhood, cultural heritage, and spiritual bonds among expatriate Bangladeshi Christians. They expressed their commitment to continuing religious, social, cultural, and humanitarian initiatives for the welfare of the diaspora community. BCA President Bipul Elite Goncalves extended heartfelt gratitude to all members, volunteers and sponsors.