New Children's Book Brings Father Baker's Story to Life

For decades, the legacy of Father Nelson Baker has inspired countless families through his faith, compassion, and unwavering commitment to children in need. Now, that legacy is leaping off the page in a bold new way. Father Baker: A Friend to All is an engaging, beautifully illustrated children’s book created to introduce young readers (ages 8 to 12) to the remarkable priest who built a “City of Charity” and changed Western New York forever.

The project reflects a concerted effort on the part of OLV to make Father Baker’s story accessible and relatable to today’s youth. “If we want young people to understand who Father Baker was, we have to meet them where they are,” said Msgr. David LiPuma, Pastor/Rector of OLV National Shrine & Basilica. “This book allows children to see that his faith, humility, and love for others are just as powerful and relevant today as they were a century ago.”

The 80-page book was written for kids by OLV Charities' Chief Creative Officer Tom Lucia, who began shaping the story with a critical focus group: his own children. “I asked them what they connected with and what felt distant,” Lucia explained. “Their honesty helped me tell Father Baker’s story in a way that feels real and exciting. He wasn’t a superhero or someone from another planet. He was a person of deep faith who simply said ‘yes’ to helping others, and that’s something every child can understand.”

Bringing the story to life visually is acclaimed artist Michael Gelen of Inkwell Studios, whose vibrant illustrations capture Father Baker’s warmth and determination.

Father Baker: A Friend to All is available now at the OLV Gift Shop in the lower level of the Basilica and is ready to inspire the next generation of compassionate hearts.

> Download the first two chapters of the book here.