Scholar Eddie Glaude Jr. argues that we often view the women and men who surrounded Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. too narrowly--primarily as followers of King's lead. Yes, they were deeply committed disciples of the movement. Yet, they were far more. The collected sermons of Cordy Tindell "C.T." Vivian remind us that Vivian stood among the impactful figures of the civil rights era as a deep thinker of Christian theology and activist-faith.

Indeed, history records Vivian as a preacher-activist who conveyed a clarity of theological thought regarding democracy and faith. Your Soul Is Required compiles Vivian's wisdom alongside commentaries written by contemporary scholars and preachers to explore the depth of Vivian's theology. Those familiar with Vivian's work point out that his theological prowess is best seen through his sermons. The power of Vivian's sermons, in turn, shows through his ability to present complex ideas about Christian faith and the world in accessible ways for ordinary people. Your Soul Is Required will speak as well to scholars of theology and practitioners of homiletics as it will to grassroots women and men who seek contemporary inspiration to guide their faith and action in a troubled world.