Salvation on Sand Mountain by Dennis Covington
- 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) Speaking in tongues
C) Faith healing
D) Water baptism
- 2. Where is Sand Mountain located?
A) Alabama
B) Georgia
C) Tennessee
D) Kentucky
- 3. What was Dennis Covington's original profession?
A) Farmer
B) Preacher
C) Teacher
D) Journalist
- 4. What event first drew Covington to cover the snake-handling churches?
A) A church revival
B) A snake bite death
C) A documentary project
D) A murder trial
- 5. Who was the preacher convicted of attempted murder in the case Covington covered?
A) Jimmy Morrow
B) Carl Porter
C) John Holbrook
D) Glenn Summerford
- 6. What substance was Glenn Summerford accused of forcing his wife to handle?
A) Strychnine
B) Poison
C) Fire
D) Rattlesnakes
- 7. What biblical passage do snake handlers cite to justify their practice?
A) Matthew 5:13-14
B) Mark 16:17-18
C) Psalm 23
D) John 3:16
- 8. What dangerous practice besides snake handling do these churches engage in?
A) Walking on fire
B) Drinking poison
C) Self-flagellation
D) Fasting for weeks
- 9. What is the name of the church where Covington becomes most involved?
A) Sand Mountain Baptist Church
B) Holiness Church of God
C) Pentecostal Temple
D) The Church of Jesus with Signs Following
- 10. What regional culture does Covington connect with snake handling?
A) Appalachian
B) Midwestern
C) Deep South
D) Southwestern
- 11. What personal revelation does Covington have about his own family history?
A) He had Native American roots
B) His father was a preacher
C) His family were early settlers
D) His ancestors were snake handlers
- 12. What literary genre best describes 'Salvation on Sand Mountain'?
A) Historical fiction
B) Science fiction
C) Literary journalism
D) Fiction
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