p. 283 | RESPONSE by James White; Ellen G. White

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · May 28, 1867

RESPONSE

By James White; Ellen G. White

It is a pleasure to us to express our love for, and confidence in, the church at Battle Creek, with whom we have been connected twelve years in labors, trials, disappointments, hopes and joys. We came to this dear people in discouragement, feebleness and want. They cheered us by expressions of confidence and love; they strengthened us by holding up our feeble hands, by their prayers and their words of good cheer, and they relieved us of our wants, and helped us to provide a humble home.

We deeply regret the necessity that seems to compel us to be separated from them for awhile. And as we leave we pledge to them our continued love, and our labors according to our ability and their wishes; and, also, our prayers for their prosperity, that those on whom responsibilities in the cause of present truth and reform shall rest, may be guided by wisdom from above, and may serve the great cause far better than we have done.

And we wish to say to all our brethren scattered abroad that in union there is strength. No good cause can prosper without a constituted head of good persons and also confidence in that head by fellow laborers and by those who should be led. Such a head exists at Battle Creek, which will be sustained by our people. And while it is human to err, and the best of men prove their fallibility each day of their lives, let us all confide in God, and in the infallibility of the third message.

In view of our afflictions we would humble ourselves before God, and pray him to raise us up to the enjoyment of health. We also ask the prayers of the church in Battle Creek, and all who have faith. And may we walk in union with them until immortal bonds of love shall be ours for ever.

JAMES WHITE. ELLEN G. WHITE.