Frequently Asked Questions
VISITING THE BASILICA
- What are the Basilica's hours? The Basilica is open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. On Saturday, hours are until 7:30 p.m. On Sunday, the Basilica closes at 6 p.m.
- Is there an admission fee? No. Visitors of all faiths are welcome and there is no charge for admission.
- Where do I park? Ample parking is available behind the Shrine, accessible off South Park Avenue (Route 62).
- Is the Basilica accessible for visitors with disabilities? Yes. The Basilica is wheelchair accessible via ramps and an elevator.
- How do I get there? The Basilica is located at 767 Ridge Road in Lackawanna, New York, just south of Buffalo. Driving directions and a map are available on the Visitor Information page of our website.
TOURS
- Are tours available? Yes. Free guided tours of the Basilica are offered. Group tours may be scheduled any time between 1 and 5 p.m. throughout the week, except Fridays, provided they do not conflict with Masses, weddings, or funerals.
- How do I schedule a tour? To schedule a group tour, contact Carolyn at (716) 828-9444 or by email through the Contact Us page on our website. Please allow ample time when calling — we will do our best to accommodate all requests.
- Is there a cost for tours? Tours are free of charge. Donations are gratefully accepted and go directly toward the cost of ongoing renovations and maintenance.
- Can I visit the Basilica without a guided tour? Absolutely. You are welcome to visit and explore the Basilica on your own during regular open hours.
MASSES & WORSHIP
- When are Sunday Masses celebrated? Vigil Mass (Saturday): 4:30 p.m. Sunday Masses: 8 a.m., 10 a.m. (Contemporary Music), Noon (Choir), and 4:30 p.m.
- When are Daily Masses celebrated? Weekday Masses are celebrated Monday through Saturday at 7:30 a.m. and 12:10 p.m. An additional Mass is held at 8:15 a.m. on Fridays when school is in session. Please refer to the weekly bulletin for any schedule changes.
- When is the Sacrament of Penance (Confession) available? Confession is available on Saturdays from 3 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 7:30 p.m., as well as on the eve of Holy Days and First Fridays from 3 to 4 p.m.
- Is the Rosary prayed at the Basilica? Yes. The Rosary is prayed Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to Noon in the Chapel, located in the lower level of the Shrine, prior to the 12:10 p.m. Mass.
- Is Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament offered? Yes. Adoration takes place every Friday following the 12:10 p.m. Mass and continues until 5 p.m. Benediction.
- Can I watch Mass online? Yes. Masses are livestreamed and past recordings are available. Visit the Livestream Mass section of our website for details.
SACRAMENTS
- How do I arrange a Baptism? Baptisms generally take place on Sundays following the 12 p.m. Mass. A Baptismal Preparation Session is required for all first-time parents. Godparents must be Catholics who have received the Sacrament of Confirmation and are actively practicing their faith. Letters of Good Standing are required for sponsors from outside the parish. To register, visit bit.ly/olvbaptism or contact Deacon Mark at (716) 339-0767.
- How do I plan a wedding at the Basilica? Weddings should be scheduled 12 to 18 months in advance of your marriage date. Couples are required to attend a Marriage Preparation Program. Please contact the parish office at (716) 828-9444 to begin the process.
ABOUT THE BASILICA
- What is the history of OLV National Shrine & Basilica? The Basilica was built through the faith and vision of Venerable Nelson Baker, a beloved priest who credited the Blessed Mother under the title of Our Lady of Victory with all of his success. Construction began in August 1921 after Bishop William Turner blessed and laid the cornerstone. The Basilica was completed in 1925 and formally dedicated in 1926. It was built to rival the great churches of Europe, and features breathtaking paintings, marble sculpture, and stunning architecture. Today it more than 280,000 parishioners, visitors and pilgrims each year pass through its doors.
- Who was Father Baker? Father Nelson Baker (1842–1936) was a priest of the Diocese of Buffalo who devoted his life to serving the poor and marginalized. He is credited with establishing numerous charitable institutions in the Lackawanna area. He is currently a candidate for sainthood and holds the title of Venerable. His remains are interred within the Basilica. For more information, check out www.fatherbaker.org.
- What is the significance of the designation "National Shrine & Basilica"? The term "basilica" is an honorary title granted by the Vatican to churches of particular historical, spiritual, or architectural significance. The designation of "National Shrine" reflects the Basilica's role as a place of pilgrimage for Catholics throughout the United States. OLV is one of relatively few churches in the country to hold both distinctions.
- Is a gift shop available? Yes. The Father Baker Museum and OLV Gift Shop are located in the lower level of the Basilica.
PARISH & COMMUNITY
- How do I register as a parishioner? Parish registration forms are available on our website or at the parish office. You are warmly welcome to join our community.
- Does OLV have an elementary school? Yes. OLV Elementary School (Pre-K through Grade 8) has provided students with a quality Catholic education for nearly 130 years. More information is available at ourladyofvictoryelementary.org.
- How can I support the Basilica? The Basilica relies on the generosity of donors to fund ongoing restoration and maintenance. Contributions can be made online through our website's Give page, or mailed to OLV National Shrine & Basilica, 767 Ridge Road, Lackawanna, NY 14218. Memorial and commemorative contributions may be discussed with Monsignor David LiPuma, Pastor/Rector.
- How do I submit a prayer request? Prayer requests can be submitted online through the Prayer Submissions page.
CONTACT
- How do I reach the parish office? Phone: (716) 828-9444 Address: 767 Ridge Road, Lackawanna, NY 14218 Online: olvbasilica.org/contact-us
Have a question not answered here? Please don't hesitate to reach out ... we are happy to help!
