Spiritually Rich, Economically Poor: An analysis on religious culture and community in Central Appalachia

Someone driving through the rolling hills of Eastern Kentucky may see a minimum of ten small churches in less than ten minutes. The physical presence of so many churches within the Central Appalachian region suggests that religion has a strong role in Appalachian communities and Appalachian culture alike. In a rural area with a small population, though, how can all of those pews be filled? Little research has been conducted on the role and influence of church communities in Central Appalachia. The purpose of this qualitative study is to understand church culture in Central Appalachia, as well as the influences churches have on people residing in Central Appalachian communities. Data was recorded through five in-person qualitative interviews in Harlan County (KY) and Mercer County (WV) in early 2013. Findings indicate that mountain churches not only play an integral part in providing faith guidance and emotional stability for Appalachian people, but they can also be the primary agents that develop strong social communities and emotional support systems. Findings also suggest a distinction between insiders and outsiders within Appalachian communities - and that distinction depends largely on one\u27s status and involvement in a church community. Additionally, research found that church outsiders are generally more optimistic about revitalizing Appalachian towns in need of assistance, while church insiders deemed that the social issues that preside in Central Appalachia will never dissipate