Who was Father Nelson Baker? To some, he was a shrewd businessman, driven to succeed by remarkable vision. To others, he was a protector, an advocate for the rights and well-being of all people -- regardless of ability, race, or creed. And to others, he was a spiritual leader of incredible faith, giving all in the name of Our Lady of Victory. But every one can agree that he was a man like very few.
Recently named Buffalo's "Most influential citizen of the 20th century" by the Buffalo News, Father Nelson Baker was (and continues to be) well known by tens of thousands as a saintly man. By many, the humble priest is simply known as "the Padre of the Poor." He opened the doors of his institutions to poor and needy children, unwed mothers and their babies, and anyone else who needed a helping hand. Around the turn of the 20th century, his Infant Home accepted unwanted babies and provided a safe environment for unwed mothers. His General Hospital served the surrounding community, and his orphanage for boys took in unwanted children, showed them love, and taught them how to succeed in a cruel world. Prior to Father Baker's arrival, the "Limestone Hill" Institutions (as they were known) served 238 boys, just 18 years later, that number nearly tripled (644).
But Father Baker's most visible accomplishment was the Basilica of Our Lady of Victory dedicated to Jesus' Mother as Victorious Queen. The shrine -- built for nearly three million dollars and paid for entirely through donations -- was consecrated on May 26, 1926, and capped off Father Baker's 50th year in the priesthood and 84th year of life! The "Padre of the Poor" would be called upon time and time again through the last 10 years of his life as the Great Depression ravaged Western New York. Before passing away at the age of 94 in the very hospital he built, it was estimated that his institutions provided stability and care to hundreds of thousands of needy children, youth, and adults.
Father Baker's legacy continues to this day in many ways. His social programs have evolved into Baker Victory Services, which provide care to more than 2,500 children each and every day, his Hospital continues to offer services to the area, his Homes of Charity provide the critical funds necessary to continue his social programs through donations, and his wonderful Basilica enjoyed its 75th Anniversary in 2001. In addition, the Catholic Church named Father Baker "Servant of God" in 1987, the first step towards declaring him a saint. Currently, his cause for canonization, overseen by his third successor, Msgr. Robert C. Wurtz, is under review by Vatican officials in the hopes of beatifying the humble priest in the very near future.
The story of Father Nelson Henry Baker is a special one. It is a tale of unconditional love, unsurpassed faith, and an unshakable belief in a better life for all of God's children.
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