Father of the Fatherless: The Authorized Biography of Father Nelson Baker. This item is unavailable.Father of the Fatherless: The Authorized Biography of Father Nelson Baker

This first critical biography of Msgr. Nelson Baker (Father Baker) places him within the rich context of American Catholic life between 1840 and 1940. Through his devotion to Mary under her title Our Lady of Victory he supervised an orphanage and Protectory for boys and an infant home for unwed mothers and their babies. As a result of more than 50 years of ministry, both as superintendent of these institutions and pastor of St. Patrick's/Our Lady of Victory Parish, Baker became an almost iconic figure in western New York. Additionally, he was integrally involved in the Diocese of Buffalo, both as vicar general and twice administrator when the See was vacant. Nelson Baker's work to date is relatively unknown outside western New York. This biography will broaden the base of people who know of his work and significant accomplishments for the betterment of children. His significant work in the institutions, and most especially his rather unique work with unwed mothers and their children, merits a precise, complete, and historically accurate account of his life. †

Richard Gribble, CSC, a Holy Cross priest, serves presently as a professor of religious studies at Stonehill College in North Easton, Massachusetts. He is the author of over 25 books of spirituality and Catholic history, with a concentration on the American Church.