But not all exclusivistic religious groups choosing to live in the Ozarks have promoted a gospel of peace. In recent decades the region has seen the coming of several radically militaristic religious groups, including one called the Covenant, Sword and Arm of the Lord. This is evidenced in their use of violence to maintain their own system and lifestyles and by their threatening posture towards minorities whom they consider inferior. Most Ozarkers reject such radicalism, choosing instead a broad socio-religious fellowship. Usually the community church serves a particular geographical area, rather than a confessional group.
Creeds are brief and simple, with the rest left to individual consciences.
It is not uncommon to find Baptists, Catholics, Pentecostals, Methodists, and others worshipping together in such an environment, and doing so free from sectarian spirit. Here the colors in the coat of many colors are blended. Another expression of community spirit occurs when established denominations cooperate, especially in rural areas, for gospel sings, vacation Bible schools, religious holidays, and even summer revivals. Many early schools in the Ozarks were established by religious groups, because public schools were largely absent until after the Civil War, and education was usually considered a function of the church. Pioneers were especially concerned for preservation through education of their language, culture and distinctive faith.