- 1. Salvation on Sand Mountain by Dennis Covington is a deeply introspective memoir that chronicles the author's journey into the heart of the American South, specifically the fervent world of snake-handling churches in Alabama. Covington, who originally sets out to explore the unusual practices of this religious community, finds himself drawn into their passionate faith and the profound themes of salvation and redemption that pervade their rituals. Through vivid storytelling, Covington reflects on the complex interplay between faith, fear, and the struggle for meaning in a world that often seems chaotic and uncertain. The book navigates personal and cultural crises, as it also delves into his own family history, grappling with themes of loss and reconciliation. Covington's lyrical prose captures the intensity of the snake handlers' beliefs, illustrating how their encounters with danger and the divine provoke powerful questions about faith, community, and the human experience. Ultimately, Salvation on Sand Mountain transcends a mere account of a peculiar religious practice; it becomes a profound exploration of the search for truth and the ways in which people seek connection with the divine amidst their struggles.
What is the primary religious practice explored in 'Salvation on Sand Mountain'?
A) Snake handling
B) Faith healing
C) Water baptism
D) Speaking in tongues
- 2. Where is Sand Mountain located?
A) Kentucky
B) Alabama
C) Tennessee
D) Georgia
- 3. What was Dennis Covington's original profession?
A) Teacher
B) Preacher
C) Farmer
D) Journalist
- 4. What event first drew Covington to cover the snake-handling churches?
A) A documentary project
B) A murder trial
C) A church revival
D) A snake bite death
- 5. Who was the preacher convicted of attempted murder in the case Covington covered?
A) John Holbrook
B) Glenn Summerford
C) Jimmy Morrow
D) Carl Porter
- 6. What substance was Glenn Summerford accused of forcing his wife to handle?
A) Poison
B) Strychnine
C) Rattlesnakes
D) Fire
- 7. What biblical passage do snake handlers cite to justify their practice?
A) Matthew 5:13-14
B) Psalm 23
C) Mark 16:17-18
D) John 3:16
- 8. What dangerous practice besides snake handling do these churches engage in?
A) Walking on fire
B) Fasting for weeks
C) Drinking poison
D) Self-flagellation
- 9. What is the name of the church where Covington becomes most involved?
A) The Church of Jesus with Signs Following
B) Holiness Church of God
C) Pentecostal Temple
D) Sand Mountain Baptist Church
- 10. What regional culture does Covington connect with snake handling?
A) Southwestern
B) Appalachian
C) Deep South
D) Midwestern
- 11. What personal revelation does Covington have about his own family history?
A) He had Native American roots
B) His family were early settlers
C) His ancestors were snake handlers
D) His father was a preacher
- 12. What literary genre best describes 'Salvation on Sand Mountain'?
A) Literary journalism
B) Science fiction
C) Fiction
D) Historical fiction
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