Father Baker Retold

Father Baker Retold

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.

Episodes

October 15, 2025 9 mins

In this powerful episode of Father Baker Retold, we journey back to the Great Depression — a time of despair that revealed the boundless compassion of Venerable Nelson Baker. As thousands struggled to survive, Father Baker’s “City of Charity” became a beacon of hope, feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, and healing the sick. But his impact went deeper. Through his groundbreaking outreach to Buffalo’s Black community and the...

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Did you know that before the Basilica, St. Patrick's Church stood on the corner of South Park Ave. and Ridge Rd?

A 1916 fire caused considerable damage, most notably collapsing the steeple. Instead of completely repairing the church, Father Baker only made renovations to areas necessary for worship.

He knew he had greater plans for the space.

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On this episode of Father Baker Retold, we explore Father Baker's relationship with the boys in his care. And while it may not have been by blood, the bond he shared with them grew strong enough that many of them referred to him as "Daddy Baker." To these boys, the threat of being "sent to Father Baker's" was laughable since they knew they had it better than many on the outside world.

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June 20, 2024 13 mins

We're kicking off a brand new season of Father Baker Retold with a look at Father Baker's European Pilgrimage. Learn about the trip 150 years ago that forever changed the trajectory of his life... And, in turn, the lives of thousands of Western New Yorkers.

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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.'

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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.

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November 28, 2022 15 mins

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.

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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.

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September 27, 2022 8 mins

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.

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September 21, 2022 9 mins

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.

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September 21, 2022 10 mins

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.

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