Lt 36, 1907

Irwin, C. W. and others in the Avondale School

St. Helena, California

February 6, 1907

Portions of this letter are published in 8MR 369-371. +^{NoteOne or more typed copies of this document contain additional Ellen White handwritten interlineations which may be viewed at the main office of the Ellen G. White Estate.}

To Prof. Irwin and others bearing responsibilities in the Avondale School

Dear Fellow Workers:

We are much pleased to have the privilege of hearing how greatly the blessing of the Lord is resting upon the Avondale school. How pleased I should be to see the grounds as they are now, looking as I was instructed they might look under proper, intelligent cultivation.22LtMs, Lt 36, 1907, par. 1

In the darkest hour of the establishment of the Avondale school, when the outlook seemed the most discouraging, I was sitting in the hotel in Cooranbong, then used by our people, completely wearied out by the complaints made regarding the land. My heart was sick and sore. But suddenly a great peace came upon me. Angels seemed to be in the room, and then the words were spoken, “Look ye.” And I saw flourishing, cultivated land, bearing its treasure of fruit and root-crops. Many resources were spread out before me, and wherever my eye was directed, I saw prosperity.22LtMs, Lt 36, 1907, par. 2

I saw the school filled with promising students. All seemed to be helped, by the inspiration of well-organized efforts, to stand and work upon a high platform. There was so large a number of pleasant faces that I could not fail to understand that the light of the Lord’s countenance was lifted upon them.22LtMs, Lt 36, 1907, par. 3

A great light and peace came upon me. I was so blessed that I praised the Lord aloud, saying, “His word is fulfilled, ‘God will spread a table in the wilderness.’” [See Psalm 78:19.]22LtMs, Lt 36, 1907, par. 4

I had this vision in that hotel, when the enemy was working decidedly to create forebodings and unbelief. Since then I have not had one hour of discouragement in regard to the Avondale school.22LtMs, Lt 36, 1907, par. 5

Early in the morning, at six o’clock, some one tapped at the door of my room, and inquired, “Will Sister White speak to the students this morning?” I said, “I will.” I found a goodly number assembled, and I told them what God had revealed to me in the night season. Brother Rousseau and all the rest present listened with intense interest. When I had finished speaking, Brother Rousseau said, “Sister White, a similar impression came to me; and now, for the first time, I confess my unbelief. If the Lord will pardon me, not another shade will I cast upon your soul to cause you sorrow. I will now look and work on the side of faith.”22LtMs, Lt 36, 1907, par. 6

We felt the Holy Spirit’s power in that meeting. Since that time we have had unwavering faith regarding the school.22LtMs, Lt 36, 1907, par. 7

At this time, not a building was started. The ground was being prepared, but there were a few who did not have faith to go forward. But after this, all took hold to carry forward the work in faith and hope.22LtMs, Lt 36, 1907, par. 8

You may be assured that we rejoice that you have taken hold intelligently to act your part. Let the Lord work, and we shall see of His salvation. I wish this letter to go in this mail, so that you may know that I appreciate the work that has made such good advancement under faithful, painstaking effort.22LtMs, Lt 36, 1907, par. 9

We shall be glad to hear from you at any time. We shall try to respond, if it be only in a few words. Let us have reports from the school.22LtMs, Lt 36, 1907, par. 10

With much love to you all, teachers and students.22LtMs, Lt 36, 1907, par. 11