Ellen White wrote that colporteur work is one of the best educational experiences for those entering the ministry. She referred to it as the "best preparation" and "one of the very best ways" to gain fitness for ministry. Here are some of the specific statements on this topic: * **As an Education for the Ministry:** "One of the very best ways in which young men can obtain a fitness for the ministry is by entering the canvassing field. Let them go into towns and cities to canvass for the books which contain the truth for this time. In this work they will find opportunity to speak the words of life, and the seeds of truth they sow will spring up to bear fruit. By meeting the people and presenting to them our publications, they will gain an experience that they could not gain by preaching." (GW 96) * **The "Very Best Education":** "The very best education young men can obtain is by entering the canvassing field and working from house to house. In this work they will find opportunity to speak the words of life. Thus they will sow the seeds of truth. Let young men show that they have resting on them a burden from the Lord." (SW, January 29, 1901) * **The "Best Preparation":** "Those who give evidence that they are truly converted, and who take up the canvassing work, will see that it is the best preparation for other lines of missionary labor." (AUCR, June 1, 1902) * **An Experience Not Gained by Preaching:** "Many of our young ministers, if truly converted, would do much good by entering the canvassing field. They would there obtain an experience in faith. Their knowledge of the Scriptures would greatly increase, because as they imparted to others the light given them, they would receive more to impart. Let them enter the canvassing fields, and see what they can do in the way of producing. By meeting people and presenting to them our publications, they will gain an experience which they would not gain by simply preaching." (KC 104.1)