Readers React: In praise of Father Greg Boyle and Homeboy Industries

To the editor: Father Gregory Boyle and Homeboy Industries — subjects that made for such good news on Wednesday’s front page — present a real alternative to continued incarceration in the Los Angeles area. Boyle really cares about the former gang members he helps rehabilitate and gives them hope, especially those who have already served time behind bars. (“After 30 years of helping gang members, Father Greg Boyle is slowing a bit but still determined,” Nov. 4)

We have an opportunity to support this very worthy effort by donating to Homeboy, purchasing gifts from its catalog and buying its chips and salsa at Ralphs supermarkets.

Boyle represents the difference one person can make and reminds us of the old adage, “It’s better to light a candle than curse the darkness.”

Claire Marmion, Long Beach

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To the editor: There may have been some dispute regarding Roman Catholic sainthood for Junipero Serra, but if one will accept the opinion of this Jewish kid, surely there should be no concern regarding sainthood for Boyle.

Stu Bernstein, Santa Monica

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