Pope Benedict has finally found a Bishop willing to move to Birmingham: Bishop Robert Baker, Ordinary of Charleston, SC and the entire state of South Carolina.
Here is a truly holy priest, a holy bishop. While I was writing my PhD dissertation at the great Gator Kingdom, I lived at the Cathedral of St. Augustine in St. Augustine, FL. The Rector of the Cathedral was none other than the new Bishop of Birmingham.
A man of prayer, then Father Baker was dedicated to the poor and needy that were in great numbers in Florida .... it is much easier sleeping outside in FL. He was also a man who spent much time counselling the prisoners in the county lock up. Before coming to St. Augustine, Father Baker was well loved by the students at the UF in Gainesville, where he was Pastor of St. Augustine's Church and Student Center.
As well, Bishop Baker is a quiet man who frequently takes his fishing pole to a lake nearby wherever he is stationed to catch fish for the needy. There in solitude he has deepened his love for God, for us, and strengthened his abilities. Any Bishop reading this, please excuse what I am about to say but it is my experience. Bishop Baker is a genuinely humble bishop ... not a great commodity in our country.
God be with him in taking upon his shoulders this challenge. St. Francis, his special friend, will surely help him each day.
