Opinion: In the era of Trump, we need Father Greg Boyle more than ever

To the editor: Like many, I am disgusted and confused by the leadership of our country. Lying is the norm. Bullying is acceptable. People of color are eyed warily. Compassion is out of fashion and boasting of sexual harassment is merely “locker room talk.”

Every day is filled with chaotic tweets and alarming headlines. We can’t understand what is happening and don’t know how to combat the downward dangerous spiral.

And then light shines thanks to the simple story told by Father Greg Boyle about a former gang member he works with at Homeboy Industries. (“How to bridge the gap between ‘us’ and ‘them,’ ” Opinion, Nov. 28)

A heavily tattooed man, a different kind of man than most are used to, shares his honest thoughts and is cheered by the audience he is addressing. It is a small welcome sign of hope.

This past summer while in the seaside town of Rovinj, Croatia, my daughter met two American law enforcement officers vacationing after attending a conference in Prague on female incarceration. They told her about a man in Los Angeles who was doing amazing work, Greg Boyle. They called him a saint. My daughter smiled and said, “I know.”

Anne Hansen, Camarillo

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To the editor: Well, you did it again, Father Greg.

I had tears streaming down my face after reading about your road trip and lecture with one of your “homies.” I read it aloud to my tough Navy husband, and he cried too. Thank you. We need hope so much in these troubled, hate-filled times.

Your tough-love approach to helping gang members at Homeboy Industries is a model that should be cloned for all our cities that are plagued by drug abuse, violence and hatred. I am not a Roman Catholic, but your message goes way beyond any sect.

After brushing away the tears, I wrote a Christmas check to Homeboy, and I hope all who read you do the same. We need to support your work by reading your book, offering aid, donating money or buying the delicious foods made by Homeboy.

The city of the Angels has a miracle in you.

Judith Jameson, Laguna Beach

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