Ellen White does not support the idea that women should be entirely silent in church. In fact, she repeatedly encourages both men and women to use their voices for prayer, testimony, and edification in public worship. She expresses concern when people, including women, refrain from speaking or bearing testimony in meetings, noting that this can grieve the Spirit of God (see
1T 44.2; LS80 176.1; LS88 176.1).
She also emphasizes the importance of clear and distinct speech in public worship, so that all may be edified and able to respond (CT 241;
CT 245.2;
CE 127.1). Ellen White does caution against speaking evil or gossiping, and she urges both men and women to bridle their tongues and avoid negative or harmful speech (
2T 54.1).
In summary, Ellen White's writings affirm that women are not to be silenced in church, but rather encouraged to speak for the edification of the congregation, provided their words are uplifting and in harmony with Christian principles.
**References:**
- White, E. G. (1872). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, p. 44.2.
- White, E. G. (1880). Life Sketches of James and Ellen White (1880), p. 176.1.
- White, E. G. (1888). Life Sketches of James and Ellen White (1888), p. 176.1.
- White, E. G. (1913). Counsels to Teachers, Parents, and Students, p. 241; p. 245.2.
- White, E. G. (1893). Christian Education, p. 127.1.
- White, E. G. (1871). Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, p. 54.1.
If you would like more specific references or further detail, please let me know!