Father Thomas Vassalotti and The Grossman Family held a farewell concert “in gratitude for the gift of music and to St. Cecilia, the patroness of music and musicians” on June 1 at St. Cecilia Church. The concert featured Antonio Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s Souvenir de Florence.
This is one of many music events Father Tom has organized during his twelve years as pastor of Divine Mercy Parish. He is a Julliard School trained and very accomplished double-bass player.
The Grossman Family is headed by Eric Grossman, a violinist and fellow Julliard alumnus.
“I will always remember him as hardworking for all three [churches] (St. Cecilia, St. Francis of Paola, and St. Nicholas). [He is] dedicated, humble, and peaceful,” said Ana Diaz, parishioner of St. Nicholas RC.
In addition to his role as pastor, Father Tom was dean of Brooklyn Deanery #1, which included the parishes of Greenpoint and Williamsburg.
On June 24, St. Francis of Paola held the annual parish BBQ after its 5 p.m. mass. The parishioners thanked Father Tom for his twelve years of service and wished him well on he new assignment at St. Francis of Assisi–St. Blaise Parish in Crown Heights in East Flatbush. His final day at Divine Mercy Parish is June 29. They will miss his spiritual leadership as well as his talents as a musician.
The Greenline 