Elder Daniells took Ellen White onto the platform with the group of ministers who were to open the important session. A spirit of solemnity pervaded the assembly as they gathered in the large tent pitched near the new college building. Many had the feeling that this would be “one of the most important gatherings of God's people ever assembled on the earth.” WV 477.2
Behind the scenes, and not mentioned in the Review and Herald in the formal report of the session, a number of important things were taking place. One of these was three early-morning meetings in which church leaders heard A. F. Ballenger present his views on the sanctuary. Ellen White was to address these views in a somewhat veiled way in her talks, and more specifically in a face-to-face confrontation. WV 477.3