18—A Special Work

Context: Mrs. White addresses two well-known church leaders, I.H. Evans and J.S. Washburn in this letter. The correspondence covers many subjects, including Ellen White's burden for Oakwood and its specific needs.

July 19, 1905

I am glad that these men are still able to do solid, substantial work. They must have greater encouragement, in point of financial assistance, in their work in the Southern field. Their efforts have brought many souls into the truth, and they must not be left to wear out their souls in discouragement. The Southern field is a very hard, needy field, and it must receive assistance. Chosen men should be appointed to receive the funds that will now be called for in behalf of the enterprises that must now come to the front in this needy field.PCO 33.4

Over and over again the light has been given that a special work is to be done in Huntsville. Those who are rooted and grounded in the truth, in all its bearings, are to be placed in charge of the work. A beginning has been made on the orphanage for colored children, but this work stands unfinished. On the beautiful farm of over three hundred acres, God purposes that an efficient missionary training school shall be conducted, which will develop many workers for the colored people.PCO 34.1

A small sanitarium should also be established in connection with the Huntsville School. The sanitarium building should not be of a shoddy character. Neither should it be narrow and contracted. It should be built substantially, and there should be in it a room for the physician and nurses, to carry on the work of healing the sick and giving patients and students an education in regard to the right principles of living.PCO 34.2

Abridged

Sources: Letter 205, 1905; The Watchman, August 29, 1905, par. 17; Manuscript Releases 8:130; Spalding and Magan Collection, 380; To Those in Charge of the Colored Orphanage Enterprise, 3-4