If My Lips Confess: a Monk's Story

As a young Catholic monk, Luis vows poverty, chastity, and obedience. When he's called to work in Spanish Harlem, he finds himself at homeamong those who need him most: the homeless, ex-prisoners, prostitutes,and addicts. While he knows his life is about prayer and service, he'sunprepared for the emotional and political realities he encounters. Within weeks of arriving at Austin House, Luis meets Carlos and is facedwith an attraction that's inappropriate for a monk. As his friendshipflourishes, Luis fulfills his duties with dignity and respect byadministering the outreach office, setting up new facilities for AIDSvictims, and making sure the pantry is stocked for the meal program. Heeven has the courage to expose corruption that turns the House upsidedown but ultimately brings social justice. In the process, Luis experiences both wonderment and confusion as henavigates his calling and struggles with his growing love for Carlos. Although he maintains his vows, prays daily, and works tirelessly, hebegins to question what God is really leading him to do. During trips toRome and Florence, Luis realizes his religious garb and prayer may notshield him from worldly desires, and he must decide which life is for him.