Appalachian Mountain Christianity: The Spirituality of Otherness

by Bill J. Leonard, Mitchell G. Reddish (foreword)

Appalachian Mountain Christianity examines the beliefs and practices of certain Protestant religious groups, primarily Baptists and Holiness Pentecostals, whose history is shaped in and by the Central Appalachian context. Particular attention is given to Primitive and Old Regular Baptists as well as certain denominationally connected or independent Pentecostal communions.

Bill J. Leonard explores the ways in which Appalachian cultural and religious transitions and upheavals impact these traditional faith communities; the style and significance of their rituals including preaching, worship, baptism, foot washing, and glossolalia; their varied approaches to scripture and doctrine as evident in their views on salvation and women’s roles in church and home; and in the dramatic nonconformity of two specific Appalachian traditions, the Pentecostal Serpent Handlers and the Primitive Baptist Universalists.

Through his examination, Leonard suggests that the ideas and actions of these Appalachian Christians reflect the spirituality of otherness. This is not the otherness of inferiority or ignorance by which Appalachians and their churches are often caricatured but the otherness of religious experiences that focus on encounters with the Divine and contribute to individual and collective spiritual insight and “inwardness.” Those traditions and the spirituality that centers them are worth exploring, even for those who do not join them.

117 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 1, 2024

Reviews

[Kevin Dingess]

This book examines selected Christian traditions in Central Appalachia, particularly Primitive and Old Regular Baptists and Holiness Pentecostals. Leonard explores preaching, worship, women’s roles, and how cultural change affects religious communities. He also considers Pentecostal serpent handlers and Primitive Baptist Universalists, showing the diversity within Appalachian Christianity. His discussion of “otherness” challenges regional stereotypes and emphasizes the distinctive spiritual experiences through which believers understand their faith and community.
This book contains themes of religious identity, cultural continuity, social change, gender roles, religious authority, and marginalization. The book provides examples of how religious beliefs and practices shape community belonging, preserve traditions, and influence responses to changing social conditions. It also encourages readers to question stereotypes, recognize diversity within Appalachian Christianity, and examine unfamiliar religious practices within their cultural and historical contexts.

[James Carey]

A really fascinating deep dive into a unique way to practice faith. Well worth a read if you have any interest in Appalchian culture or Christian faith.

[Timothy Klob]

Well written and engaging overview of Christian belief and practice in Appalachia.