Ellen G. White has worked side by side with and counseled ministers of the gospel for more than half a century. The compilers of this book have gathered from the rich treasure of her writings a selection of inspired guidance that applies directly to the life and work of the pastor of the local church. The documentation was done by the Pastoral Association of the General Conference. Readers should look for the fundamental principles in her counsel and then apply them in a practical manner, appropriate to their time and culture.

It is the earnest prayer of both the Pastoral Association and the administrators of Ellen White's writings that as you go through this book, you will receive rich blessings. May your Christian experience deepen and your pastoral ministry be strengthened as you study from the opening chapters, which deal with the pastor's personal relationship with Christ, to the final chapter, which recaps lessons from the ministry of Jesus, the Model Shepherd.