Edith Andrews was the niece of J. N. Andrews and was involved in the early Adventist work in Europe. Ellen White wrote about her in several contexts:
1. Edith was described as "steadily failing" in health while in Switzerland. Ellen White noted that Edith was "not fit to die," and observed that she had attracted attention to herself, had a few favorites, and neglected others who were worthy and good. This led to a kind of idolization among her peers, which Ellen White saw as problematic, saying: "So, you see, God was left out of the question. This sentimentalism has injured the usefulness of excellent young men in the office and unfitted young girls for their work." (
DG 159.3)
2. Ellen White wrote directly to Edith, emphasizing the importance of exercise and spiritual readiness. (DG 172)
3. After Edith's death, Ellen White commented: "Edith [Andrews] was brought into meeting and she bore her testimony, but I am sorry to say she is not spiritual and does not know how to come to the light. [It is believed that she was converted shortly before she died.]" (
17MR 324.1)
4. Ellen White also addressed the girls in the office, warning them against idolizing Edith Andrews: "I called together the girls from the office and talked with them seriously and affectionately, trying to have them see that they had enshrined Edith Andrews in their heart as an idol. The worship due to God they had given to a human, erring creature, one who was herself in need of mercy and the pardoning love of God or she would not be saved." (
17MR 332.2)
In summary, Edith Andrews is remembered for her struggles with spiritual commitment and the negative effects of social favoritism and sentimentalism among her peers. Ellen White's comments about her are both cautionary and compassionate, urging others to avoid idolizing people and to focus on a genuine relationship with God.
References:
- Ellen G. White, Daughters of God, p. 159, 172.
- Ellen G. White, Manuscript Releases, vol. 17, pp. 324, 332.