Newbold College Hosts Ellen G. White Symposium on 50th Anniversary of First European Research Center
15 May 2024 |
Members from the Trans-European Division gathered at Newbold College from April 19 to 21 for the Ellen G. White Symposium, titled Understanding Ellen G. White and Her Prophetic Gift Today. This event also marked the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the first European Ellen G. White Research Center, a significant milestone in the Adventist church’s scholarly exploration.
Audrey Andersson, General Vice-President of the General Conference and chair of the Ellen G. White Estate, highlighted the crucial role of this initial research center. “It’s very special because it was the first outside North America, which became the template for the other 19 research centers that we now have around the globe.”
Sponsored by the Trans-European Division (TED), the symposium attracted 800-1,000 attendees, including pastors, administrators, teachers, and church members from across the TED territory. A notable highlight was the attendance of a group of Scottish Mission Pathfinders from Glasgow, who participated as part of their “God’s Messenger” honor requirements.
Dr. Merlin Burt kicked off the symposium with his presentation on Young Ellen and the Love of God, where he delved into White’s three-stage conversion process and her evolving understanding of God’s loving nature. The event also tackled the challenges of interpreting White’s writings in contemporary times, with Dr. Jan Barna emphasizing the need for careful and respectful interpretation to bridge the cultural and historical gaps.
Dr. Kevin Burton’s thought-provoking session, Ellen G. White: Literary Source and Gender, sparked significant discussion. He explored how gender biases have influenced perceptions of White’s prophetic role, and he debunked the myth of White as a “last choice” prophet, advocating for an appreciation of her contributions in a way that respects her gender.
As the symposium wrapped up, attendees reflected on White’s lasting impact on spirituality and church direction. Daniel Duda, TED President, expressed gratitude for the ways White’s works have blessed the Advent movement and inspired continuous learning and growth within the church.
“We are thankful for how God used Ellen White to bless the Advent movement….She has not only shaped the past of our church but continues to guide us in our present and inspire our future…. If there is no advancement in our lives, we are not led by the Spirit. Because where there is God’s Spirit, there is freedom to move forward; people are free to learn and to unlearn. We become the agents of hope, which is what our European society needs nowadays.”
