Gregory Boyle is a Jesuit priest and the founder of Homeboy Industries, the world's largest gang-intervention and rehabilitation program based in Los Angeles. He is the author of two acclaimed books, "Tattoos on the Heart" (2010) and "Barking to the Choir," which explore themes of redemption, compassion, and the transformative power of unconditional love. His works draw from decades of firsthand experience working with former gang members, offering profound insights into marginalized communities.
Boyle is a nationally recognized expert on gang intervention and youth rehabilitation, serving as a consultant to government agencies and policymakers. His leadership has earned him numerous honors, including the California Peace Prize, induction into the California Hall of Fame, and the White House's Champion of Change recognition. In 2017, he received the University of Notre Dame's Laetare Medal, the oldest award bestowed upon American Catholics.
As Executive Director of Homeboy Industries, Boyle has dedicated his career to providing guidance and opportunities for at-risk youth. His advocacy extends to speaking engagements at universities and national conferences, where he emphasizes the critical role of mentorship in preventing gang violence. He has also served on advisory boards for the U.S. Department of Justice and Loyola Law School, further solidifying his impact on juvenile justice reform.
Non-Fiction Books
#
Title
Year
Goodreads
Amazon
1
Tattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion
2009
2
Barking to the Choir: The Power of Radical Kinship
2017
3
St. Joseph Church - High Bridge, New Jersey
2019
4
The Whole Language: The Power of Extravagant Tenderness