The history of Bland County---from the rural hamlets through the fertile farming valleys and up the mountain hollows---is reflected in the history and heritage of the county's churches. For generations before the county was opened up by the tunnels of East River and Big Walker Mountains, community life was centered around church life. The construction of the community's church was often one of the first community projects undertaken, even as land was cleared for farms and homes. The circuit preachers serving the area acted as missionaries, encouraging the spiritual values of respect for God, stewardship of the land, and respect and love for each other. As the county grew and expanded, the churches followed the settlements and formed an invisible but ever-present network. Today Bland County still enjoys a rich and diverse religious life and the influence of this is evident in the lives of the men and women who continue to express the Joy of Life in their relationships with their neighbors. Services of many denominations can be found almost every day of the week in a structure of white frame, brick, or cinderblock. The resident or visitor only needs to look.