Finding Christ in the Suffering of our Cities: An Evening with Fr. Greg Boyle, S.J.

Abstract

Greg Boyle at St. John's ChurchFr. Greg Boyle, S.J., one of the most inspiring Jesuits in the country, spoke with us at Creighton to help us better understand what he discovers working with the gangs of East Los Angeles.| - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -|Fr. Greg Boyle, S.J. is a nationally known Jesuit speaker. His life story is one of commitment. His stories about the youth he serves are full of reality, blessed with humor, and deeply moving. Across the country - from National Public Radio, the Today Show, or 60 Minutes, receiving many honorary degrees and awards - Fr. Boyle allows us to see into our cities by seeing the heart of Jesus, where Jesus is present and suffers. The men and women Fr. Boyle serves will stir our hearts as we get to know their struggles, their dignity and their faith.|Greg Boyle at St. John's ChurchWe have chosen Fr. Boyle for this Creighton Jesuit lecture because the Society of Jesus has asked us to reflect upon people in the world through whom Christ is calling out to us most urgently. Jesus identifies himself with "the least" of his brothers and sisters.|Speaking of those stuck in entrenched poverty, the U.S. Provincials have said:|So limited are their opportunities, their poverty has become structurally entrenched. Their lives are severely diminished; their hopes are crushed by a persistent and oppressive poverty that denies to all but the boldest the basics of human dignity and the opportunity to live happy and fulfilled lives.|Speaking specifically about the poor of our inner cities the Jesuit Provincials said:|These groups represent all those whom poverty relegates to the very margins of society where their dignity is ignored, their rights are violated, their humanity is degraded, and their hopes are shattered. Solidarity with them is not a matter of politics. It is part of our solidarity with Christ and the expression of our love for God.