uspostalservice:
. While at an angle, this disconnects many pins that could be carrying a signal.
I'm sure you are dead right about that.
It appears that you have bought the shield with the headers disconnected. It must be obvious that what you are doing cannot possibly be a good idea, and you are clearly obliged to solder in the the connectors before you can reasonably expect a result. If you are unable or disinclined to do the soldering, I suggest you return the shield for a refund and get something more suitable.
Indeed, in the light of all the posts of late on this forum describing the grief incurred by this shield, returning yours for a refund looks like a seriously good idea.
You might then trawl eBay for a JY-MCU bluetooth board for about $7, a $1 breadboard and some jumpers, thereby not only saving some money but also getting something you can easily come to terms with. Further, you will get plenty of support here.