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In the novel Reveille for a New Gospel, Henry Knudsen believes he's living his life according to Gospel principles, especially the Sermon on the Mount and parables. But he lapses. His sister's response is a reveille, a strong wake-up call, "Change your behavior or stop visiting our home." A confused Henry seeks counsel from his parish priest, who also manages programs for the homeless where he volunteers. He follows the priest's suggestions and discerns the Gospel's guidance is essential but not enough. In the spirit of a new Gospel, he must also be kind.

But even a new Gospel doesn't help when a superior shuns Henry and colleagues confide he's being mocked behind his back.

Throughout the novel, homeless program guests offer fresh insights on the Gospel and the perils of street life.

His beloved Gwynneth Trevor, also a volunteer, describes her struggles with Church hypocrisy. She and Henry discover a shared passion for careful, deliberate observation of their surroundings in Washington, DC. They acknowledge and discuss their differences. Henry vows to listen to her, aided by a prayer suggested by the parish priest. When she is promoted to a job in Philadelphia, will he follow her? How they conduct their decision-making is as compelling as the eventual outcome.