[This article, together with other matter of great interest concerning the Southern work, was received by the editor of this paper directly from Sister White herself, bearing her signature. It has never been printed before.]
EGW
Many have asked the question, Why did J. E. White and his associates select Nashville as a center for work? I answer, Because the Lord in his wisdom directed them to this place. It is His purpose that light shall shine forth from the memorials established for him in and near Nashville. SW June 19, 1902, par. 1
There is no place in the South better suited than Nashville for the carrying forward of the publishing work. It is the best place in which to do the work that has been started there. SW June 19, 1902, par. 2
There is not in Nashville the bitter opposition to the work for the uplifting of the downtrodden colored race that exists in many other cities of the South. Much work is being done there to uplift the colored people; and the sentiment in favor of these efforts will be a security to our people in their work. SW June 19, 1902, par. 3
There are in Nashville large educational institutions for the colored people, in which much excellent work has been done, and is being done for them. The teachers and students in these institutions are to hear the message of present truth. It is for this reason that God has directed that different institutions be established in Nashville. SW June 19, 1902, par. 4
The truth is also to be brought before those who have given of their means and influence for the benefit of the colored race, that their prejudice against the Bible Sabbath may be removed. They have taken a noble stand for the uplifting of this people. They are to see a representation of our work that will be to them an object lesson. We are to do all we possibly can to remove the prejudice that exists in their minds against our work. If the efforts we put forth are in accordance with the will of God, many among them will be convicted and converted. The Lord works in a way that causes light to shine on the pathway of those who are seeking for light. SW June 19, 1902, par. 5
The Lord has a great work to be done in the Southern States of America,—the most neglected and the most sinful part of his vineyard. It was in accordance with God's purpose that the publishing work was started in Nashville. In his providence he has brought together in this place a company of workers who are to act their respective parts in the Publishing House, standing as representatives of Christianity. This institution is to give character to our work in the South. It will be instrumental in establishing the faith of many in Bible truth. SW June 19, 1902, par. 6
A school for colored people should be established outside the city of Nashville, on land that can be utilized for Industrial purposes. God himself has wrought to bring together in Nashville workers who are especially fitted to reach the colored people and raise them from their degradation. SW June 19, 1902, par. 7
In every place those who accept the truth are to be a light to those around them. The Lord says to us, “Ye are the light of the world.” “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” SW June 19, 1902, par. 8