“To redeem the soul of America” was the motto of SCLC, which meant creating the American Dream and the Beloved Community. The cross protected King from the paralyzing fear of death, giving him the courage to fight for racial justice, no matter the cost. With the cross at the center of his faith, he could even love the people he knew were trying to kill him, following Jesus’ example on the cross, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do” (Lk 23:34).
