EARLY MILESTONES IN MINISTRY AND SERVICE

Publishing: In 1848, James and Ellen White were convicted to write, print, and distribute a regular magazine to unite Adventists everywhere. This would allow them to share or discuss important points of theology (this magazine was initially called Present Truth, later changed to the Adventist Review & Sabbath Herald, presently called The Adventist Review)

This conviction to utilize the written word led to the operation of Adventist publishing houses around the world, both for informative and evangelistic purposes.

Health: The 1860s marked the beginning of the Adventist Church’s expansive health reform efforts and healing ministries. Battle Creek Sanitarium in Michigan was established in 1866 as the first Adventist-owned and operated medical institution (also known as the Western Health Reform Institute). 

In addition to organized healthcare institutions, early Adventist health reform involved early support of the germ theory of disease⁶, evidence of the benefits of a vegetarian diet and abstinence from alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs.

Education: Adventists believed proper education should include a holistic focus, educating the whole person rather than focusing solely on textbook knowledge. This belief prompted the opening of the first Adventist-sponsored school in Battle Creek, Michigan in 1872. Not long after, Battle Creek College opened in 1874. To provide direction for the future of Adventist education, the General Conference organized their Educational Society that same year.