OLV celebrates Father Baker Day with Mass, Pennies to Heaven, and family carnival

LACKAWANNA — OLV National Shrine & Basilica celebrated Father Baker Day on Sunday, July 27. The day involved the time-honored tradition of community members dropping pennies and larger coins on the sidewalk of the basilica as part of the Pennies to Heaven collection. This year’s event marked 89 years since Venerable Nelson H. Baker, known as the Padre for the Poor passed away.

Msgr. David LiPuma, pastor and rector, celebrated Mass at noon with an estimated 1,000 guests. At the end of the service, a commemorative wreath was placed at Father Baker’s tomb inside the basilica.

Thousands gathered to enjoy the family-friendly carnival and chicken barbecue with lawn games, beer tent, and much more.

All proceeds from Father Baker Weekend will benefit OLV’s Save the Dome campaign. The 100-year-old copper on the dome is being replaced with shiny new copper. Work is scheduled to continue until 2027.

Father Baker’s Cause for Canonization is ongoing. He earned the title of “venerable” from the Vatican in 2011, representing the first of three steps toward sainthood. He awaits the confirmation of a miracle to attain the next title, “blessed.” For additional information about Father Nelson Baker, visit a newly designed website at www.fatherbaker.org.