Father Baker Retold

Jane

Do you know who Venerable Nelson Baker is? And, if you do, how well do you know his story? “Father Baker: Retold,” an OLV podcast, is devoted to telling some of the fascinating stories about Western New York’s saintly hero that folks may know in part or not at all. The best part? Each episode features a special guest to help bring these remarkable tales to life. read less

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Padre of the Poor (feat. Mike Randall)

Padre of the Poor (feat. Mike Randall)

By now, you already know that Father Baker was a crusader for unwed mothers and unwanted babies, but did you know he also lent a helping hand to those struggling to make ends meet? And that was just about everyone during the Great Depression. Let's take a look at how Father Baker earned the nickname 'Padre of the Poor.'

Episodes

Padre of the Poor (feat. Mike Randall)

Padre of the Poor (feat. Mike Randall)

By now, you already know that Father Baker was a crusader for unwed mothers and unwanted babies, but did you know he also lent a helping hand to those struggling to make ends meet? And that was just about everyone during the Great Depression. Let's take a look at how Father Baker earned the nickname 'Padre of the Poor.'

Cause for Canonization (feat. Msgr. David LiPuma)

Cause for Canonization (feat. Msgr. David LiPuma)

We all know Father Baker is on the road to Sainthood... But where is he on that road? And, what exactly does that road look like? On this episode of Father Baker Retold, we'll give you an update on where the process stands.

Building the Basilica (feat. Kevin Keenan)

Building the Basilica (feat. Kevin Keenan)

On this episode, we'll take a look at one of Western New York's most beloved landmarks – and the jewel of Venerable Nelson Baker’s “City of Charity” -- OLV National Shrine & Basilica.

The Infant Home (feat. Lackawanna Mayor Annette Iafallo)

The Infant Home (feat. Lackawanna Mayor Annette Iafallo)

Perhaps Father Baker is most known for his care with babies that families could not keep, whatever the reason may be. But did you know that the OLV Infant Home was one of his toughest feats? Not everyone was a fan of what he was doing for mothers and babies alike.

The Gas Well (feat. Althea Luehrsen)

The Gas Well (feat. Althea Luehrsen)

It should come as no surprise that heating all of Father Baker's institutions was pricey, especially with the Western New York winters. Ignoring all criticism, Baker began a mission to dig for natural gas on the grounds.

The Civil War (feat. Mickey Kearns)

The Civil War (feat. Mickey Kearns)

Did you know Father Baker served in the military? When his country called, Nelson answered, joining Union troops in the Civil War. He had ties to some major historical events, including Gettysburg and the New York City Draft Riots.

The Early Years (feat. Eileen Buckley)

The Early Years (feat. Eileen Buckley)

In this episode, we'll take a look at Venerable Nelson Baker's early years, from his birth to his (late) start at the seminary.