Martin Luther King’s vision for social equality, his voice and message of justice and spiritual discernment give the fullest expression to the challenges now facing contemporary society in America and the world at large. The Civil Rights Movement of the twentieth century represented a world changing phenomenon unlike any before it on the stage of the human struggle for equality. It was that final push in a long line of movements for racial parity that yielded the open society long sought after for all people in America. It served as a model for the oppressed worldwide to capture a glimpse of hope out dungeons of despair. The enormity of this single accomplishment, though it had world wide impact, however, should not overshadow the simple truths and practical wisdom that may still be gleaned from the preaching, the life and thought of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Without question, his message is still relevant today as the world has crossed the bridge of the twenty first century and encounters more difficult continental and intercontinental human relations. As a result, the wisdom and passion couched in King’s preaching and speeches are often sought out and repeated. His words are among the most widely quoted and reflected upon by scholars, activists and social thinkers from around the globe as the quest for peace and social freedom continues. Martin Luther Kings’ vision still provides a foretaste into a future where the church can function as an effective agent of positive change that is able also to keep his ideas relevant. King longed to witness a church where there was dynamic transformation of the human spirit, where a more inclusive and vibrant worship takes place wielded together in the bond of peace as the beloved community. By this shall we be known!

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