Contrast the religious form of Boy with the spirited belief of Joel Surgeoner.

Boy simply follows religion because it is expected of him. Religion and church are a part of his "well bred" identity. Joel Surgeoner on the other hand is "born again" after his encounter with Mrs. Dempster. Joel Surgeoner has a much more visceral and authentic experience. He becomes a believer through trauma and a sort of resurrection-experience.