A Friend to All: Father Baker’s Story Comes Alive

For years, Father Nelson Baker has inspired generations through his faith, humility, and tireless devotion to children and families in need. Now, OLV is bringing his story to life for a whole new generation with Father Baker: A Friend to All, an energetic, beautifully illustrated children’s book designed to captivate readers ages 8–12.

The project reflects OLV’s commitment to pulling Father Baker out of black-and-white history and into the hearts of today’s young people. Building on the excitement of the 2025 Father Baker comic book, Father of the Fatherless, this book presents his life in a way that feels immediate, relatable, and relevant in the 21st century.

The book is only available in the OLV Gift Shop, in the lower level of OLV National Shrine & Basilica. If you are a teacher or school administator and would like information on receiving copies for your students, click here to contact us via email. 

Our Partner

The first printing of Father Baker: A Friend to All was sponsored by the Catholic Parenting Initiative (CPI) of Western New York. CPI provides wholistic formation, support, parenting workshops and trainings, resources, formational experiences, and, most importantly, opportunities to encounter and develop a personal relationship with God. For more information, go to CPIWNY.org.

Download the first two chapters of "Father Baker: A Friend to All"