Its birthplace in the township of Washington, New Hampshire, in 1844, reveals three central truths about the history of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

1. Before it was "Adventist" or Sabbath keeping Adventist, it was "Christian."

2. It celebrates a history that has emphasized "freedom."

3. It welcomes and grows from diversity within its membership.

The Christian Roots of Seventh-day Adventism

The local church where "Christian," "Advent," and "Sabbath" combined was established by Christian Connection believers, a religious body that in the mid-nineteenth century was fifth in membership within the United States.

Members of the Christian movement sought biblical authority for every aspect of belief. They wanted "no creed but the Bible." Thus, if they were convinced from the Scriptures of the literal soon advent of Christ and the continuing validity of the seventh day Sabbath, their heritage demanded acceptance.