Often we remained together until late at night, and sometimes through the entire night, praying for light and studying the Word. I met with them, and we studied and prayed earnestly. My husband, Elder Joseph Bates, Father Pierce, Elder Edson, and others who were keen, noble, and true, were among those who, after the passing of the time in 1844, searched for the truth as for hidden treasure.
“ Many of our people do not realize how firmly the foundation of our faith has been laid. The following quotes describe this early experience. The Lord was leading this process of investigation, and through the work of the Spirit of Prophecy, he helped them to settle upon principles of truth, which are called the foundation of the faith of the Seventh-day Adventist church. Also, in light of the Great Disappointment, which had created an atmosphere of doubt and fanaticism, they began to re-examine and affirm the points of faith that they had believed. Between the years of 18 the faithful Advent believers spent much time studying the light of the third angel which was opening to their understanding.