THE HEALTH INSTITUTE by J. F. Byington

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jan 1, 1867

THE HEALTH INSTITUTE.

By J. F. Byington

The truths which have been developed within the last few years, on the subject of health, have an importance attached to them fully equal to any branch of present truth which has ever been held dear by Seventh-day Adventists. Our people, as a general thing, have yet but a feeble comprehension of this work. It has, it is true, in some form, been presented to most who are believers in the truth as held by our people; and to a very limited extent, most have taken some steps in the Health-Reform movement. A few scattered all over the country, from Maine to Minnesota, are zealous and energetic in this work, so much so that they have full confidence in it, and believe it has come as an “angel of mercy” to relieve the sufferings of all who feel willing to be benefited by it. But it is yet in its infancy, most regarding it as problematical, querying whether indeed great importance attaches to it, or whether it will not prove a sort of failure after a few years’ trial. It seems to me of great importance at the present time, to bring it before the people in a comprehensive manner, showing them the benefits which will arise from it. I have been surprised of late to listen to the experience of some who have regained their health by a strict adherence to the principles of the Health-Reform system. So afflicted and feeble were some of these, that life was almost a burden to them; but now their bodily sufferings are nearly all gone, and as one man expressed it, he has been “growing younger for the last four years.”

Since the adoption of the plan, by a few at our last General Conference, to establish a Health Institution, untiring efforts have been made to carry this plan into successful operation. A very favorable site for its location, as our readers have heretofore been informed, was secured, and by much labor, perseverance, and energy a home for invalids was got in readiness by the 8th day of September last, at which time enough had come to avail themselves of its benefits to make a fair commencement; and every week since that time, others who were seeking health, have been added to the number, till now the family at the Health Institute is quite numerous. Quite a number have returned to their homes, some of whom have entirely regained their health; those, too, who were seemingly almost too far gone to have any hope. Others have returned partially restored, not feeling able to remain longer, but determined to carry on the work at home.

Six new patients arrived within the last three days, and we hear from many more who probably will be added to our numbers very soon. Good cheer prevails, and all who have a home with us are buoyant and hopeful. The determination and general feelings of all are to seek for health and learn how to preserve it, and they consider that here they have found the right place to secure these blessings.

A favorable impression exists almost everywhere concerning this method of curing disease. Letters of inquiry are received from all quarters, expressing dissatisfaction with present popular methods of treating the sick, and in favor of the means we employ. In our own city there are quite a number of zealous Health Reformers, who carry these principles into practice; some of our wealthiest merchants belong to this class. The Institute is regarded with much favor by the citizens of our own community, all wishing it success.

The present prospect is that our great difficulty will be to accommodate all who wish to avail themselves of the benefit of the Health Institute. But we hope the time is not distant when our accommodations will be sufficient to receive all who may wish to come.

Those who have invested means in this cause have aided in a good work. There are hundreds of others who, if they understood the harmony and beauty of the Health-Reform system, would lend a helping hand. We ask you, friends, to investigate it. Although at first it may seem to you of little importance, you may learn that a thorough knowledge of this system is worth more to you than all other known means, for curing the sick, and preserving health.

J. F. BYINGTON, M. D.

Health Institute, Battle Creek, Dec. 28, 1866.