History
In South Lancaster, a group of ladies used to meet regularly to carry out missionary activities such as visiting the sick, helping those in need, distributing publications, and giving Bible studies. Seeing the work of these women, Pastor S. N. Haskell thought that this kind of ministry should be carried out in all churches. In 1869, the first Adventist missionary society was founded, called the Vigilant Missionary Society. Years later, it became the nucleus of the Tract and Missionary Society.
In 1913, the General Conference organized missionary activities, and evangelistic work became a regular program of the department. The first of these took place in 1951, in Grand Ledge, Michigan. From there arose a permanent missionary training program in the churches, known today as the 120.
The Personal Ministries Department provides resources and prepares church members to unite their efforts with the ministry and church officers in the final proclamation of the gospel of salvation in Christ. The department’s goal is to involve all members in diligent service for the winning of souls for God.