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Grotto Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes. Found at the southern end of the transept and to the left of the altar when facing front, the Grotto Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes has become one of the most significant (and often visited) spots within the Basilica. For it is here, that the shrine's saintly founder, Father Baker, rests.
In stark contrast to the flowing gracefulness of the rest of the Basilica, the grotto is hewn out of lava rock taken from the fames Mount Vesuvius in Italy. During construction, Father Baker gave much thought to this area, finally deciding on the unique rock to honor the vision of the Blessed Mother to St. Bernadette at Lourdes, France.
In 1999, the Congregation for the Causes of Saints in Rome recommended that Father Baker's remains (which were buried at nearby Holy Cross Cemetery) be moved within the Basilica proper. The decision was made to relocate the humble priest's gravesite to the grotto. It is there, that, each day, dozens of pilgrims come together to pray to and for their intentions and the saintly founder of the OLV Institutions, Father Baker.
"There are a thousand angels in the Basilica." A popular quote said by Fathert Baker on many occasions. But, according to estimates, the actual number of angels ranges anywhere from 1,500 to 2,500 (numerous attempts to make an accurate count have all prodcued different figures.) It was the "Padre of the Poor's" plan to place an angel in every possible sightline, reminding visitors that for all of its beauty and dedication to Our Lady of Victory, the Basilica is meant primarily for God's praise and glory. Visitors are encouraged to take their own count . . .
The Altars. In keeping with the style of architecture the artists had chosen for the Basilica, five unique altars line the rear wall behind the Main Altar. These altars are dedicated to: St. Patrick (to whom the original church on the same site was dedicated in 1851), St. Aloysius, Mary Immaculate, St. Anne (seen instructing her daughter, Mary), and St. Vincent de Paul, whose life work with the poor and needy served as a pattern for Father Baker's own life.
The Baptistery. Often overlooked by visitors, the Baptistery is located adjacent to the Main Altar (to the right if facing front). A unique -- and hard-to-find -- place, the Bapistery features a marble baptismal font as well as dozens of wall and cieling paintings packed with religious symbols and personalities.
The Father Baker Rooms. Located in the Basilica's basement, the Father Baker Rooms offer a unique look at the humble priest and his life. In addition to a number of photos, official documents, and vintage newspapers, a number of the humble priest's actual belongings are on display for visitors to see. Items such as Father Baker's desk, books, clothing, and furniture can be found throughout the rooms, which have been recently renovated. Also on-site are cases of photos, information, and memorabilia from the OLV Institutions (the Infant Home, Orphanage, Protectory, etc.) and the Basilica itself.