This study focuses on a group of white ministers from seven southern denominations, Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian, Episcopalian and Disciples of Christ who assisted African Americans in the struggle for civil rights in local crisis situations in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. Their involvement varied from very confrontational to mild and hesitant. Those that served as church pastors generally lost their pulpits when even mildly confrontational. A few who survived did so because their congregations were either African American, contained a large group of liberal constituents, or they, themselves, were moderate in their approach. The study recognizes obstacles facing the ministers from white supremacists within and outside their congregations, segregationist ministers and in some cases black militants. The study explores how various factors informed their actions: geographical location, denominational membership, family and childhood experiences, personal acquaintance with African Americans, seminary training, theologians, the Bible, conscience and faith. The study uses extensive interviews, archival research and document analysis in conceptualizing the meaning of human experience from the individual minister's point of view. Some ministers expressed disappointment at not having been more effective while others considered involvement in the struggle an opportunity to serve African Americans, which gave meaning to their ministries.