The St. Helena Sanitarium is beautifully located in the Napa Valley, one of the most picturesque valleys in Napa County, which is generally acknowledged to be one of the most beautiful counties in the State of California.
The sanitarium, established in 1877 for the promulgation of the gospel of health, and as a place where the sick could be treated by rational methods, was the second institution of its kind in our country.
Since its beginning, it has passed through many and varied experiences, some of victory, others of apparent defeat; but notwithstanding all the hindrances and perplexities which so often attend a work of its kind, the16institution has grown, and the life-giving principles, which have made it all that it has been and is, though at times apparently obscured, have ever triumphed, and the blessing of God has attended it.
One of the principal objects of the institution has ever been to educate the people in principles of health, and to train young persons who could go out and teach the grand truths of “saving health among all nations.”
The first regular training course for nurses was organized in 1892, and consisted of a short term of six months; but before the close of this term, the regular two years’ course was established. The first class was graduated in 1894, and each year since a number of young people have been graduated.
Year by year the course of study has been improved, and new departments have been added.
While it is not the purpose to close the door to any worthy young person, yet only those are admitted who have given their lives to medical missionary work. The educational standard has also been raised, and all students who now enter the school are required to pass an entrance examination.
A class of nine was recently graduated from the school. Three members of the class were not of our faith at the beginning of their course,—two having never made a profession, the other being a member of the Methodist Church,—but we are rejoiced to say that the three have identified themselves with us, and were baptized the Sabbath following the graduation. Every member of the class is fully given to the Lord, and all hold themselves in readiness to go wherever the Lord may direct and the board may indicate.
The number of nurses now in the institution is seven graduates, ten seniors, and eighteen juniors. The first year class, which has just entered, numbers twelve; and probably six or eight more have been accepted, but have not yet entered.
The spiritual interests of our family are most excellent, and there is a spirit of earnestness among the young people which is an inspiration to all. Morning worship is daily held with our workers. This often takes the form of a social meeting, and it is gratifying indeed to see our whole family on their feet at once to bear testimony to God’s goodness.
A Bible study is held every day at one o’clock. This is also a time when special requests may be given for prayers either for the family or for patients.
An enthusiastic young people’s meeting is also held every Sabbath afternoon, in which the young people themselves are held responsible for the work, thus seeking to develop laborers, who, when they go out as missionary workers, may be prepared as leaders of the people.
A school of health is carried on for the patients, in which special instruction is given in the various subjects pertaining to health, dietetics, cookery, healthful dress, exercise, ventilation, and all kindred subjects.
