Seventh Day Adventist Timeline

First vision of the church

1847

Ellen G. White, one of the founders of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, has her first vision. The vision confirmed the Sabbath truth to the still-skeptical Whites and others.

Great Controversy Vision

1858

Ellen White had a 2 hour vision while in Lovett's Grove, OH that depicted the conflict between Christ and Satan.

Founded

May 21, 1863

Founded in Battle Creek, MI.
The General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists is formed, with James White as its first president.

First school is established.

1872

The first Seventh-day Adventist school, the Battle Creek Academy is established in Battle Creek Michigan.

Name is changed

1874

The denomination's name is changed to Seventh-day Adventist

1888 Message

1888

The "1888 Message" controversy arises over differing views on the role of faith and works in salvation.

Call for reorganization of church's leadership

1901

Ellen G. White speaks at the General Conference session in Battle Creek, Michigan, calling for a reorganization of the church's leadership structure.

church reorganization

1903

The church reorganizes into a hierarchical structure, with the General Conference as the highest authority.

First hospital opens

1915

The church opens its first hospital in Loma Linda, California.

First university opens

1955

The church establishes its first university, Andrews University in Michigan

ADRA is founded

1956

The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) is founded to provide humanitarian aid around the world.

Adventist Health System/3 million members

1980

The church's membership reaches 3 million. The Adventist Health System is established to operate hospitals and health care facilities.

150th anniversary

2015

The church celebrates its 150th anniversary with a global conference in San Antonio, Texas with 19 million members worldwide.