Dear Editor: We have lost one of the jewels in the Brooklyn-Queens diocesan crown. The death of Msgr. Nicholas W. Sivillo is a devastating loss for all who knew and loved him. As a parishioner at Our Lady of Hope from 1993 to 2009, I had the privilege of witnessing his pastorship and benefiting from his ministry. His experience, wisdom and spiritual guidance were invaluable. He was a kind, gentle, caring man, who always supported and encouraged his flock.

His homilies were delivered in a down-to-earth manner, usually infused with a touch of humor, to which the average person could relate. I always felt renewed and uplifted whenever I attended any of his services. Also, he had the “patience of a saint,” gladly giving his time and attention to anyone who needed assistance, and he did it with a smile! He had a way of making you feel special, and that gift was especially evident when he interacted with the children of the parish. I am grateful that my daughter and son were able to experience Monsignor’s “lead by example” management style. He was a wonderful role model and my children have many fond memories of him.

Never did I see Monsignor lose his temper or speak crossly to anyone. He made it a point after every Mass he celebrated, to thank everyone who volunteered and participated – the altar servers, ushers, lectors, ministers of Holy Communion and the music ministry. He showed appreciation for his congregation, which fostered an atmosphere of mutual respect and gratitude, and a true sense of belonging and community. His humility, in addition to his ability to focus on the positive aspect of any given situation, made him one of the best priests I have ever known, as well as one of the finest human beings I’ve ever met.

Msgr. Sivillo will be greatly missed but never forgotten. He will be remembered in the heart of each person’s life he touched. I certainly will carry his memory in my heart forever.

I will end this tribute by repeating a phrase he himself so often used to end his homily at a funeral, “Job well done, good and faithful servant of God. Job well done!”

PATRICIA A. TYRRELL R.N.
Maspeth