In Memory of Brother Sal Patricola

“I wanted to talk and he listened.” While those words could have been spoken by many people, they referred to only one: Brother Sal Patricola.

Like his Capuchin brother Solanus Casey, Br. Sal was a greeter, a listener, a confidant. Whether it be in the rear of the church after Mass, in the pews during daytime visits, in the gift shop, standing on the steps of St. John’s to acknowledge passers-by, or even when

walking the streets of Manhattan in the friar’s habit he called his witness, Br. Sal was always available. People in all stages and avenues of life benefited from his conversations and guidance.

The largest segment of Br. Sal’s ministry as a Capuchin was spent at the Church of St. John the Baptist. During that time he was never not involved in all aspects of parish life. As an ordained deacon he proclaimed the Gospel, offered the homily, and during the Easter season, used his tenor voice to joyfully exclaim Alleluia. As moderator of the Solanus Guild he promoted devotion to and imitation of this exemplary Capuchin; as spiritual advisor to an SFO fraternity, he fostered the charism of St. Francis. The Gift Shop, however, was his special ministry. Each patron was greeted warmly; each item purchased received a special, personal blessing. Over the years Br. Sal presided over retreats, evenings of prayer, midday and afternoon devotions, and weekly novenas. Shortly after his arrival in 2001, the attack on 9/11 occurred; he opened the doors and pews of St. John’s to provide rest and refuge for those fleeing downtown. Through ministries known and unknown, Br. Sal demonstrated his

love for the mission of St. John’s. The people - parishioners and visitors - responded in kind.

Admittedly, during his entire lifetime, Br. Sal’s sphere of influence was far broader than midtown Manhattan, but for those at St. John’s who were blessed to share almost 15 years with him, his presence created lasting memories and heartfelt gratitude.