IMGA0431I ran across this article today about Christianity in Appalachia.  It talks about some of the cultural ramifications of life as a Mountaineer. 

I think it’s important to meet people where they are.  In this, or any area, that means understanding the idiosyncracies of the culture and learning to love the people just like they are. 

Too often, ministers come to this area from elsewhere and want to change their congregations to fit the culture of someplace else - and here’s a hint - it won’t work.