The Highlander A LESSON IN ADVENTIST HERITAGE By: Bertin Shyaka Historian and theologian Michael W. Campbell visited Highland Academy from January 24-25, 2025, to present a weekend series on Adventist heritage. Campbell, who serves as the director of Adventist history at the North American Division Research and Archives, was invited by Pastor Benjie Maxson, a longtime friend, to share insights on the denomination’s past. Campbell’s visit began on Friday with a special presentation at the church. Upon learning of his arrival, Pastor Will Labrenz, Highland Academy chaplain, reached out to arrange a session for the junior Bible class at Ponce Hall, where students were studying Adventist history. Campbell engaged with the students, surprising them with socks featuring Adventist pioneers Joseph Bates and Ellen White. Labrenz described the session as eye-opening, noting that it provided “a balanced view of Adventist history” beyond the commonly repeated narratives. On Friday evening, Campbell spoke at Vespers at Highland Church, using personal anecdotes and humor to captivate the audience. He introduced his family’s tradition of naming pets after Adventist historical figures, including Annie Smith, Lucy Miller, and sugar gliders Jones and Waggoner. He also shared his experience meeting Ellen White’s great-granddaughter,
Editor In-Chief Magdalen Carlson
Design & Art Director Tristan Naumann
Reporters Addison Atlee Shiloh Bushey Bertin Shyaka Stephanie Silva Samantha Anderson
Photographer Miguel Bittencourt Sponsors Stephanie Rufo Melissa Weisner
emphasizing the personal connections that make history more relatable. During his lecture, Campbell sought to humanize early Adventist pioneers, highlighting Ellen White’s character, humor, and love for family and animals. He outlined four biblical tests for identifying true prophets—alignment with scripture, recognition by their fruits, fulfillment of predictions, and acknowledgment of Jesus. Additionally, he discussed Margaret Rowan, an Adventist figure who claimed prophetic gifts but whose credibility was later challenged. This case underscored the importance of discernment in evaluating prophetic claims within the church. On Saturday, Campbell continued his discussions, emphasizing storytelling’s role in shaping faith and identity. Following the regular Sabbath service, he held a 2:00 p.m. session to explore Ellen White’s writings further. He stressed a Christ-centered approach to interpretation, urging attendees to consider historical context, engage in prayerful study, and use comprehensive sources. One of the key messages of Campbell’s presentation was encapsulated in an Ellen White quote: “We have nothing to fear for the future, except as we shall forget the way the Lord has led us and His teaching in our history.” Through his lectures, Campbell encouraged the Adventist community to reflect on its history for strength and guidance. The weekend event left attendees with a deeper appreciation for their heritage, illustrating the importance of historical understanding in shaping faith and mission.
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In each edition of The Highlander we will have a hidden Highland Cow for you to find. Be the 1st person to come to Mrs. Rufo and you will receive a Small Sonic Slushes. The last edition the HA Cow could be found on the front page under the swing in the snow.
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