Ellen G. White had much to say about young pastors and young men entering the ministry. Here are some key points from her writings, with direct references for confirmation: 1. **Mentorship and Training**: Young ministers should work alongside experienced, older ministers who can guide, teach, and help them prepare for their calling. The young should respect and honor the wisdom of their mentors. - "In gaining a preparation for the ministry, young men should be associated with older ministers... teaching them how to labor successfully for the conversion of souls." (Gospel Workers, p. 101) 2. **Devotion and Self-Discipline**: Young men entering the ministry are called to a life of self-denial, sacrifice, and earnest devotion. They should devote their time, strength, and influence to the work, fully aware of its sacredness. - "Let the young man who has entered the ministry look his calling fairly in the face, and determine to devote his time, his strength, his influence, to the work..." (Gospel Workers, p. 104.1) 3. **Preparation and Education**: While education is important, young men should not spend excessive years in study alone. Their training should be practical and focused on what is most needed for ministry. - "Young men who design to enter the ministry should not spend a number of years solely in obtaining an education... special advantages should be given them for a brief yet comprehensive study of the branches most needed to fit them for their work." (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 135.2) 4. **Encouragement to Enter Ministry**: Young men should not be discouraged from entering the ministry. There is a great need for young, dedicated workers in the field. - "Let not our young men be deterred from entering the ministry... God calls for you, young men. He calls for whole armies of young men who are largehearted and large-minded, and who have a deep love for Christ and the truth." (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 411.2; Gospel Workers, p. 63.2) 5. **Character and Spiritual Growth**: The usefulness of young pastors depends on their character, self-discipline, and willingness to grow in Christlikeness. - "The usefulness of young men who feel that they are called by God to preach, depends much upon the manner in which they enter upon their labors... by self-discipline, become more and still more like their Master..." (Acts of the Apostles, p. 353.2) 6. **Need for Youthful Energy**: The church needs the energy and talents of young people, but these must be directed and trained for effective service. - "Youthful talent, well organized and well trained, is needed in our churches... Unless these energies are directed into right channels, they will be used by the youth in a way that will hurt their own spirituality..." (Gospel Workers, p. 211.1) 7. **Appreciation and Support**: Young ministers should be encouraged and appreciated, as they often receive little support despite their dedication. - "Our young ministers must be encouraged to take hold of the work with energy... I am astonished to see how little some of our young ministers are appreciated and how little encouragement they receive." (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 567.3) 8. **Missionary Spirit**: Young men are called to take up the work left by older ministers and to go into challenging fields, but must first be spiritually prepared. - "The standard-bearers are falling, and young men must be prepared to take the places left vacant... But they must first cleanse the soul-temple of all impurity, and enthrone Christ in the heart." (Gospel Workers, p. 104) 9. **Connection with Youth**: Ministers should form positive relationships with the youth in their congregations, as neglecting their spiritual needs is a serious matter. - "Ministers of the gospel should form a happy acquaintance with the youth of their congregations... their neglect is a sin in the sight of Heaven." (Gospel Workers, p. 207.2) 10. **Mental and Spiritual Preparation**: Young men should receive both mental and spiritual training before entering ministry, as they will face complex challenges. - "Young men who desire to enter the field as ministers... should first receive a suitable degree of mental training, as well as a special preparation for their calling." (Gospel Workers, p. 81) These points reflect Ellen White's strong emphasis on mentorship, spiritual growth, practical training, encouragement, and the vital role of young pastors in the church's mission. **References:** - Ellen G. White, Gospel Workers (GW) - Ellen G. White, Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5 (5T), vol. 6 (6T) - Ellen G. White, Acts of the Apostles (AA) If you need more specific quotes or details, please let me know!