In 1946, Lee took dramatic pictures of serpent handling in Eli Sanders' church. His children do not follow that practice, and it is rare in the former camps. Still common, however, is the emotional, spontaneous worship that distinguishes independent mountain churches from the mainstream. Here there are no choir practices, and soloists do not need perfect pitch. When the spirit moves them, people simply spring from their seats and lead the rest in song.
Preachers travel from church to church with unscripted sermons.
Strangers are warmly welcomed. At the Closplint Church of God near Lejunior, eight children and 21 adults were present on a recent Sunday. Among them was Tammy Shackleford, who recently had surgery and missed a food stamp appointment. Sister Ethel Massengill, the church's unofficial pastor, collected groceries for the family. Shackleford calls as Massengill heads home after a service.