"A book for such a time as this. From the opening sentence—'Race has mattered throughout American and American church history, and it continues to shape our lives in ways we may not even see'—Karen Johnson shines a light on this truth through the stories of twentieth-century Christians who humbly lived as though race matters. Here at Koinonia Farm, we are grateful that Karen lived among us for a time, absorbing the spirit of our community and Clarence Jordan's witness. She chose him as one of her ordinary heroes, writing, 'He insisted that faithful Christian witness demanded that White Christians share spiritual, social, and economic fellowship as equals with all Christians—including Black ones.' Karen echoes Saint Benedict in insisting that this call must come through all humility. Read this book—a humble demand."

-Bren Dubay, director of Koinonia Farm

"In this bewildering moment for church and society, Karen Johnson's book is not just timely but a breath of fresh air. With all the care of a great historian and all the wisdom of a committed believer, she recounts true stories about imperfect people who nevertheless did the small faithful thing right in front of them—and to remarkable effect. Readers will find here not only a trustworthy window into the past but also sparks of inspiration toward a more faithful future."

-Heath W. Carter, associate professor of American Christianity at Princeton Theological Seminary

"Ordinary Heroes of Racial Justice is an extraordinary recounting of pain-filled history. This thought provoking, self-revealing, challenging book chronicles a beautiful and painful time in history that is well worth your time to read, if you are interested in investigating whether you may be on the right side of history today in 2025. This book can potentially lead you to a deeper understanding of those around you and of Christ and our living a disciple's life."

-Scottye Holloway, president of The Mendenhall Ministries