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[curious melodic music]

[seagulls squawking in distance]

[man] Full steam ahead!

[music swells]

[men shouting indistinctly]

[ship bell ringing]

[playful chatter and laughter]

[Andrews clears throat]

What happened to lights out?

We tried, Father, but... I couldn't sleep.

[Andrews] There's nothing to fear, my sweet.

It's a calm sea tonight.

[tender music]

I wish Mother were here.

[Andrews] I miss her too.

How proud she would have been of you both.

She wouldn't want you to be afraid

of what the future holds.

Try to get some sleep, you two.

Oh, Father, I couldn't possibly sleep.

Tell us a story.

Oh, yes, please tell us a story, Father!

Very well.

What shall it be tonight?

How you fell in love with Mother.

No! An adventure, with a battle.

I know a tale that has both.

You do?

Oh, yes. A story of courage and hope, war and true love.

Is there any fighting in it?

You're in luck, son. It starts with a battle.

The year was 1816

and a man by the name of William Miller

had recently returned from war.

-[explosions, gunfire] -[shouting and commotion]

[explosions, shouting continue]

[sombre strings music]

[man hollering]

[booming explosion]

[debris scattering]

[sombre strings music builds]

[music, soundscape cease]

[panting heavily]

[sharp gasp]

[whispering] William. Shh.

[clock ticking]

William. William, my love.

-[groans sleepily] -Come to bed.

God's Word has lasted these many centuries.

It will still be there in the morning.

Come back to bed.

[merry chatter and laughter]

I tell you, something or someone

delivered us that day at Plattsburgh.

There is no fact more certain in my mind.

You're saying God reached down to the battlefield

to meddle in the lives of men?

It goes against reason, William. It's not logical.

If you had seen the shells and the blood that day--

And what of the men and boys who died around you?

Was it the hand of God that put them in their graves?

I don't have the answer for that, Abner.

All I know is I should be dead and I am not.

Perhaps the Bible has an answer.

Come now, Mr Miller! The Bible is an ancient fairytale.

You have no proof of its validity.

Both views require a leap of faith.

Surely one demands as much attention as the other?

[Abner] Well, I'll tell you what I seek...

Another pint.

[gentle piano music]

♪ I know the night seems long ♪

♪ When the lights ♪

♪ Have all gone out ♪

♪ And the rain just keeps on

♪ Falling down ♪

♪ Down ♪

♪ When will it stop? ♪

♪ When you're waiting

♪ And waiting ♪

♪ Lift up your eyes ♪

♪ To heaven...♪

[laughs]

♪ It's gonna get better ♪

♪ Hope is on the way...

[church bell tolling]

♪ You don't have to Be afraid ♪

[fire crackling]

Mm...

Back to Daniel's vision, are we?

Well, speak up, so the whole family can hear.

"Then I heard one saint speaking,

"'How long shall the vision concerning the sanctuary

"'and the host be trodden under foot?'

"And he said unto me,

"'Unto two thousand and three hundred days -

"'then shall the sanctuary be cleansed.'"

Hmm, that's a long time to wait in Daniel's day.

More than that, I think.

If the sanctuary here refers to the Earth...

..then...

If the sanctuary refers to the Earth,

then the cleansing

must be the cleansing of the Earth

at the second coming of Christ.

[quill scribbling]

William?

Christ is coming.

My saviour from Plattsburgh is coming.

[curious melodic music]

How did he know that 2,300 days was 2,300 years?

[Andrews] There are clear examples in the Bible

where a day represents one year.

Look here.

Ezekiel 4, verse 6.

"I have appointed thee each day for a year."

But how did he know the prophecy began in 457 BC?

Daniel chapter 9 says the time period began

at the decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem.

Based on historical evidence, scholars agree

that the decree was given in 457 BC.

Even Sir Isaac Newton thought so.

When William had read all of this evidence,

he was convinced too.

-Who did he tell first? -No one!

[Mary] But why?

Well, because he was afraid that if he was wrong

he might confuse people.

But as the time drew closer, he began to wonder if he should.

[man exclaims]

-[Lucy] What have they hit? -[Miller] I am unsure.

Whatever it is, it will not move.

The ground is as stubborn as the man who holds the title.

Lucy, I have explained my position.

This must go beyond just our family.

You must tell others, William.

Lucy, I'm a gentleman farmer. I shall soon be 50.

I am too old to take on such a challenge.

And how then shall they call on Him

in whom they have not believed?

And how shall they hear without a preacher?

I shall make a covenant with God.

I shall speak if I am asked.

Well, it's your choice.

Are you the rock? Or are you the plough?

[man] Come on. Gee up.

[poultry clucking]

[knocking on door]

-Irving... -Hi, Lucy.

To what do we owe this... unexpected visit?

The pastor of our Baptist church has been called away.

So Mother and Father were hoping

you'd speak in his place tomorrow.

They thought you could minister on the prophecies

you have been studying in the Bible.

[muttering] No...

No...

No!

God! No!

I cannot preach! I am not qualified!

I beg you, do not put this burden upon my shoulders.

Send someone else.

[sobs softly]

And yet, I have made you a promise.

[sweeping orchestral music]

♪ It's gonna get better! ♪

-♪ Hope is on the way... -[reads indistinctly]

[speaks indistinctly]

♪ It's gonna get better!♪

♪ The sun will come again ♪

♪ You don't have to Be afraid...♪

Now, take 457 from 2,300,

and you are left with 1,843 years after Christ,

when the vision shall be fulfilled.

I think your brother-in-law has lost his mind.

The conclusion must be that sometime about 1843,

our saviour, Jesus Christ, will come to take us home.

No.

[Miller] We... we cannot serve two masters.

We cannot love this present evil world...

..and at the same time serve God.

-[displeased muttering] -[man] Shameful.

-[man] Absolutely shameful. -[man] Hallelujah.

-Oh, Brother Miller! -[church bell tolling]

Brother Miller! Joshua Himes.

I sent a letter last month

inviting you to my church in Boston.

Ah, hello, Brother...

Himes. Joshua Himes.

Look, I've preached temperance from liquor,

and abolition of slavery,

but never has my flock heard a message such as yours.

How soon can you make it to Boston? Two weeks?

Boston?

Very well, we'll make it three.

The good Pastor here knows my background.

You want me to come to Boston?

Chardon Street. The 8th.

Deliver the message that you preached here today.

But I am just a farmer...

Well, a farmer with a message that must be heard!

We will await your arrival on the 8th!

Who is that gentleman?

That's Joshua V. Himes.

And do you know his church?

[Pastor] The Chardon Street Chapel. It's a sight to see.

It looks like you're heading to the big city, Brother Miller.

[Miller] And, so in conclusion,

I believe the Bible is clear -

Jesus will return in but four short years.

[man 1] Amen!

-[hushed chatter] -[woman 1] Wonderful.

-[man 2] Wonderful. -[woman 2] Wonderful sermon.

[man 3] God bless you, Brother Himes! Thank you!

You were even better than the morning service,

Brother Miller!

Yes, good - you rest.

Tomorrow they'll be back to hear some more.

The power of your message cannot be denied.

Papa says you fought in the War of 1812.

A shell exploded no further from me than your mother.

I thought certainly it was my end.

-[imitates explosion] -Aye.

But when the smoke had cleared,

I was spared by the power of a loving God.

Did that really happen?

The apple doesn't fall far from the tree, I'm afraid.

Forgive my daughter her impertinence.

Sorry.

It's as true as I sit here before you.

[Mary Himes] And the next truth you shall hear

is that bedtime has come.

Say goodnight to Father Miller and your papa.

-Goodnight. -Goodnight.

-Goodnight. -Goodnight.

Wonderful children.

So... you really believe this doctrine which you preach?

I was lost and now I'm found.

If He can save me, Joshua, He can save anyone.

Then why hide your light under the bushel of tiny hamlets?

Must Baltimore, Rochester, Philadelphia, even New York -

indeed the 17 million souls of these United States -

not be inspired with the same hope?

And what of the rest of the world?

On the strength of your conviction,

I am willing to lay all I have

on the altar of God to help you.

Only answer me this -

will you stand right at my side if I take this on?

Indeed I will.

Then prepare for the campaign.

We shall speak in thunder tones.

Doors will open in every city,

and the good news will spread to the ends of the earth,

for it is here, Brother Miller, that I begin to help.

[wondrous orchestral music]

Look! It says Millerite on top.

-That's us. -[Miller son] Let me see!

Pride goeth before the fall.

We must not let our heads swell with our own self-importance.

Are those words from the Bible?

Those are words from your mother.

"And unto two thousand and three hundred days -

"then shall the sanctuary be cleansed..."

[Miller] Yet focus not on a simple day or hour,

for while they are near, so is Christ.

Know him first, seek him first.

Let us love one another,

for love is from God,

and those who love are born of God and know God.

God shall wipe away all tears.

There shall be no more death,

neither sorrow nor crying,

nor shall there be any more pain,

for those things are passed away.

-[birds tweeting] -[gentle music]

Ellen, you must go to bed.

Father. Just a few moments more.

Come, Ellen. Let's pray tomorrow you will be stronger.

I long for the day

of what Father Miller spoke of in church.

[Ellen sighs] No more pain.

I've never heard Jesus described as a healer before.

I have heard of his wrath and his judgement,

but I have never...

..his healing.

So beautiful.

Hm.

[lively music]

As persuasive as you were today,

our reach is not far enough.

Joshua, you have the enthusiasm of a young man.

It is both invigorating and irritating all at once.

[coachman] Come on.

The inquiries pour in from every city

up and down the eastern seaboard.

You could preach in every church

from here to the Florida territory--

Please bury me in Low Hampton next to my maple grove.

Twice a day. Still, it would not fill the need.

And see to it that my wife is provided for

until the day of judgement.

And my children.

We shall amplify your voice.

And do not say, "But I am a simple farmer..."

-But I ama simple farmer. -Who asked for help.

Well, I had no idea it would be like this.

Here on the back they invite criticism.

"Reverend Parson Cook of Lyon asserts in the 'Puritan'

"that Miller's lectures

"are more demoralising than theatre."

Ooh... [chuckles]

-Theatre! -[Eunice clears throat]

Hm!

[Minister] Mr Miller and those who listen to him

suffer from a grand delusion.

They claim that Jesus will return by a certain date.

Yes, it's not the first time

the end of the world has been prophesied by a fool,

nor will it be the last.

See, the world is not going to end in a few short years, no.

-[foreboding music] -But it will end.

And when it does, are you prepared, sinner?

[voice bellowing] Will you stand before the wrath

of a Holy God

as He looks upon the deeds behind which you cower?

Then shall the hellfire lap

at the heels of those who turned away

because of Miller's ideas.

[quietly] Oh, so much hotter the flames for him.

Don't you listen to any of that.

But I heard. We all did.

We were in a house of worship.

There is no comfort there.

[Ellen sniffles]

Have mercy upon my wretched soul

and rescue me from...

Does Elder Himes know that Papa's sick?

We sent him a letter.

Greetings, friends!

He well should know.

He cannot travel, Joshua.

-He cannot travel. -No. No, no, no. Of course not.

Typhoid is serious. It's very serious.

I know you have both put

great effort into this occasion--

It's the first time we will all be together

in the same place, with common purpose.

Baptists. Methodists. Presbyterians.

All understanding the Advent is near.

So youshall meet them.

And then you will return

and tell William all about the conference.

I would like to see him.

Just to give him a word of encouragement. Yes?

Well, hello, dear friend. How are you feeling today?

Not much better, I'm afraid.

Then I shall leave you two alone... for a little while.

But Joshua, only for a few minutes.

He is not up to visitors.

Of course. Absolutely.

[door opens and closes]

Are you certain that you cannot ride in the carriage?

I can make a marvellous bed for you in the back,

thick with blankets.

-And the fresh air would-- -No, Joshua.

At the conference, people could come to you.

-We could arrange an area-- -No. Joshua.

[weakly] This is bigger than one man. [groans softly]

This is God's power. Hundreds of pastors have awakened.

You do not need me there.

Yes. Of course. I...

You're right.

You will be in my prayers.

Thank you.

Are you certain that you cannot ride in the carriage?

Go. Go now.

The words of Mr Miller and his followers are false.

Those who are seduced by his candied tongue

have no place in this house of worship.

So... in the name of the Lord,

renounce these radical ideas.

If you do not...

..you will not be welcome here in this house of worship.

You may believe you are casting us out,

but Father Miller's understanding

of Christ's soon return cannot be ignored.

We must follow the Word of God over the rule of men.

We will not keep this good news quiet.

And if that means we must leave...

..then leave we shall.

My family feels an unspeakable joy

at the hope of Christ's soon return.

We feel love - the love of Jesus.

It lifts us up. It carries us forward.

And it will guide us home.

[stirring music]

[hushed chatter]

Oh!

Joseph Bates, as I live and breathe! How long has it been?

Too long, Brother Himes, too long.

I have heard much of your work on temperance

with the Christian Connection.

You have made quite the name for yourself

speaking on the evils of slavery as well.

I am but a humble servant, Joshua. God speaks and I obey.

Ah, nonetheless, your reputation is well deserved.

I am so pleased that you could be here today.

They came from Maine, New York City,

Connecticut, Vermont, New Hampshire, Rhode Island!

So many ideas were put forth!

Oh, it was a real exchange of thought and enthusiasm.

We have many pledges of financial assistance.

Almost immediately we will do it again!

Next time, you will be a part of it.

As will Joseph Bates.

Bates? I recall meeting him last year. Tall fellow.

Did not use any tobacco - struck me as peculiar.

Well, that he is,

but he is going to be very important to us.

We will have the resources now.

More cities.

More printing!

Your words will touch many, many souls.

Please, Joshua, remember,

it is not our work, it is God's.

Of course.

-[soft orchestral music] -[men hollering faintly]

[Andrews] By 1843, some eight million copies

of journals proclaiming the Advent message

had been sent throughout America and around the world.

-What happened next? -Well, you know how sometimes

you ask me or Charles for a bit of help with your arithmetic?

She needs more than a bitof help!

-Charles! -[chuckles] It's alright, Mary.

So did William Miller.

[Charles] His calculation was wrong?

Yes.

He was counting the year zero between 1 BC and 1 AD.

But the calendar goes straight from 1 BC to 1 AD

with no zero in between.

That meant that the prophecy finished in 1844, not 1843

like he first believed.

This is very confusing.

There was a great deal of confusion at that time.

Many different things were being debated,

and people were learning new things

-about the Bible every day. -Like what?

[Andrews] Well, one thing that was discussed

is when we should meet for worship.

On this holy day of communion,

I would leave you with the charge to keep

all of the commandments of God.

[congregation] Amen.

I want to speak to him.

Excuse me, excuse me... Hello.

I just wanted to have a quick word with you

if I could about--

He heard what I had to say. He really listened.

And will he change his day of worship

from Sunday to Saturday, as the commandments suggest?

He was impressed by what we shared from the Bible.

Meaning...?

He promised that he'd give the idea much thought

and he'd investigate the idea more fully.

-[man] Morning, Mrs Preston! -Hello!

And from that statement you declare victory?

[coachman] Excuse me, ma'am!

-Saturday... -Good morning, Mrs Preston.

..is the seventh day of the week.

It's the Lord's Sabbath. That is just so.

Perhaps the day won't matter shortly.

I've planted a seed.

As a teacher, my dear, you of all people

should understand how knowledge grows.

[sighs heavily]

[newspaper boy] Come get your paper!

Read all about Christ's return!

Is the comet a sign of Christ's return?!

Read all about it!

[Miller] I'll take a copy, lad.

So... people find intrigue in the news of the Lord's return?

People want to hear about the end of the world, sir.

Well, you have to give them credit.

I do look very handsome.

So, how many do you expect?

It's the largest tent ever erected on American soil.

It can hold 4,000. And they are assembling, plus more.

It's out of our control.

[flaps newspaper] It was never in our control.

We must be on our way.

There is a smaller meeting taking place.

I wish to stop there first.

But the giant tent! We are expected there!

The world is filled with expectations, now, Joshua.

Not everything follows an exact plan.

I told Brother Bates I would join him there.

But...!

But he should be at the big tent too!

We had hoped that by now that blessed day would have come.

And yet these final moments are... most precious.

[woman] Let my brother Samuel Snow speak.

He comes to us with news!

[crowd murmurs in agreement]

If Brother Snow has truth for us from the Lord,

let him come and deliver his message.

Our blessed Lord has promised us that He will come again

and receive His people unto Himself.

Now, when Jesus came the first time,

the gospels tell us the "time was fulfilled."

-What time was fulfilled? -[woman] Prophetic time!

[Samuel] Indeed!

Historians confirm that Christ died

in the spring of AD 31 -

precisely in the middle of Daniel's 70th week.

Now, the Bible shows us the Day of Atonement is autumn.

And what did the high priest do on that Day of Atonement?

He cleansed the sanctuary!

Exactly!

Does it not then follow that He will return

to cleanse the sanctuary on that precise Day of Atonement?

Yes!

[Samuel] The biblical Day of Atonement falls on the 10th day

of the 7th month.

Friends, we were wrong

to assume that Christ must return by the spring.

The 10th day of the 7th month falls this year

on October 22nd.

[hushed gasping]

1844.

-[excited chatter] -[woman] This is wonderful!

He is so certain. Setting the exact date is foolish.

No, not now, Brother.

We are not in favour here.

Let us hope that God will reveal more in time.

You people are turning into my best customers.

Good morning.

So you, too, are working to spread the good news?

Yes, sir. James White, with the Christian Connection.

Pleasure to make your acquaintance, Brother White.

I am Robert Harmon.

[coins jangle on counter]

-[sighs] Thank you, sir. -Time is short.

Shall we go together and see if we can

-make a difference, young man? -Of course.

[Harmon] Time is short, gentlemen.

-The coming of the Lord! -Young man. Please.

The coming of the Lord - two short weeks.

The coming of the Lord. Our God shall come.

Please, gentlemen.

Christ returns in two short weeks. Prepare your hearts.

Oh, well...

..tell him he's buying the next round when he gets here.

I am sad for those men.

It is our duty to tell the world.

-The coming of the Lord. -Sir, please.

[Miller] Obey his word and believe.

There is no time for delay.

Come to Jesus Christ,

the lamb that once was slain and now lives,

that you may live.

[Andrews] With Christ's return so near,

many Advent believers sold their properties,

abandoned their crops and gave up their jobs.

Communities were divided and families were torn apart.

I will not stay here and beg

while you stare up at the skies!

Jesus is coming tomorrow, my son...!

Well, when He arrives,

tell Him he can find me on the high seas!

Joseph, please... Do something!

[sombre music]

The world waited in suspense,

and thousands who had never given a thought to the Bible

wondered if, just maybe, it could be true.

[gentle music]

It is so fitting that we should all be here together

in these last hours.

-[thunder rumbling gently] -[rain pattering]

We did our best, sir.

Did we?

[innkeeper] Gentlemen, free ale till the end of the world!

[raucous cheering]

[playing jaunty tune]

[church clock striking at midnight]

[cheering, music cease]

[church clock continues striking]

[uneasy orchestral music]

[music builds]

[music crescendos]

[music fades]

[hushed chatter] [church clock stops striking]

Well...

..it's too bad the good Lord Jesus

couldn't join us tonight.

'Cause we've always got room for one more!

-[jaunty piano playing resumes] -[men cheering, laughing]

♪ Turkey in the straw Turkey in the hay ♪

♪ Turkey in the straw What do you say? ♪

♪ Funniest thing I ever heard ♪

♪ It's a little tune called Turkey in the Straw ♪

♪ Turkey in the straw Turkey in the hay ♪

♪ Turkey in the straw What do you say? ♪

♪ Funniest thing I ever heard ♪

♪ It's a little tune called Turkey in the Straw!♪

[tune ends, revelry fades]

-[insects chirping] -[thunder rumbling gently]

[rooster crowing]

[thunder rumbling gently]

[flies buzzing]

I see you're still with us this morning, Hiram!

The chickens, too!

Maybe Jesus will come if you fix him some breakfast!

[men guffaw]

[melancholy music]

[man] Well, tell him he's buying the next round

when he gets here.

[melancholy music continues]

-[wind whistling softly] -[leaves rustling]

[sobs]

[melancholy music swells]

[wails]

[Miller] God's message was never meant to be

about a single date.

All is not lost.

Look at the movement you have begun. You have won thousands.

And to what, Brother Himes, have I won them?

Disappointment?

To the truth of God's Word.

Setting a date has now made that appear untrustworthy.

[melancholy music continues]

[Charles] So, does that mean they got the date wrong?

[Andrews] That's a good question, son.

Let me ask you a similar question.

When the Christian church began,

did the disciples believe that Jesus

was coming to set up a heavenly kingdom or an earthly kingdom?

-An earthly kingdom. -Exactly.

When Jesus died and did not become King,

they were bitterly disappointed.

But God was already leading the start of the Christian church

despite their mistakes.

And what of Mr Miller?

He must have been so sad his friend Jesus didn't return.

Indeed. He never quite got over his disappointment.

[fire crackling]

[Lucy] You have spoken from your heart

and from the Bible

with words that have softened thousands of others' lives.

What is important about the message God gave you?

That is what you should be thinking about.

[stirring music]

♪ I'm never giving up on you

♪ Never giving up on you ♪

♪ I'm never giving up on you ♪

♪ No matter what you say Or do ♪

♪ I'm never giving up on you ♪

♪ I'm never, never ♪

♪ Never ♪

♪ Never giving up on you.♪

We will keep waiting.

For how long?

[horse snorts]

[Mrs Haines] Keep our faith strong

in your promises, Father.

Though we do not know why you did not come,

still we pray that you will do so quickly.

For our loved ones who have given up Advent hope,

we ask a special measure of your mercy.

-[high-pitched ringing] -Give us insight, oh, Lord--

[gasping] Ellen!

-[ringing continues] -[muffled voices]

-[dissonant soundscape] -[muffled] Ellen? Ellen?

-[soundscape fades] -[Elizabeth] Ellen!

[inhales deeply]

Are you alright?

Ellen, I was so worried. I thought we'd lost you--

I saw things.

What kind of things?

I was taken to another place high above this world.

And I... I...

I heard a voice.

[Mrs Haines] You were out cold, dear.

The voice spoke to me...

Who spoke to you?

I was praying for you. Was it my voice you heard?

No...

I think it was an angel speaking.

I've never heard anything like it.

[woman] She must have bumped her head, the poor dear.

With all of this fuss about Jesus not returning in October,

it seems to me that I am alone

in my commitment to worship on the Sabbath.

Ah, but-but, Mrs Preston, uh...

..I fear there are no churches here that meet on Saturday.

Mmm, if only Elder Wheeler in Hillsboro were closer.

Mother, please.

You'll likely offend them.

No, of course not.

What is offensive

is that we call ourselves Christians,

yet we keep the wrong day.

Good Elder Wheeler understood that Saturday - Saturday-

is the seventh day of the week.

What difference does it make to God

if we should worship Him one day or another?

Difference enough, William,

to chisel it onto stone

and send it down the mountain with Moses.

When you come across the 'Ten Suggestions',

we may feel free to honour God whenever we please,

or not at all.

Ah, the carriage is ready.

We may be headed to worship on the wrong day,

but we shan't be late.

[whimsical music]

[Ellen] Elizabeth, I have never lied about anything.

I'm not saying you're lying now.

You collapsed from your illness. You are not of sound mind.

You know not what you speak. - No, Elizabeth.

The Holy Spirit showed me a view of the Midnight Cry

and He explained our disappointment.

He encouraged our Advent hope.

There were people who didn't listen

and they fell off the path.

You had an accident when you were young.

It left you weak.

You will not live a regular life, Ellen. We understand that.

You will not marry. You will not be able to contribute.

But this is hardly a way to get attention.

Why are you speaking to me like this?

I pledge to you that I am telling you the truth.

Well, here is my truth!

Christ will not return to Earth anytime soon

and I am done with prayer groups!

-But, Elizabeth--! -No. You heard me.

Consider me someone who has fallen off the path!

[melancholy music]

[Joseph] Spending time with Reverend Wheeler

is what I need.

What we need is a way out of this predicament.

We're penniless, Joseph.

Where will all this Sabbath business lead you?

I'm following my heart.

[melancholy music continues]

[Mrs Cooch] Along with the others gathered here,

I, too, was greatly disappointed,

even ashamed,

that Jesus did not return last year.

But I still believe in the many promises in the Bible

that one day he will.

That is why I hold fast to the Advent.

And does anyone else desire to speak today?

I choose to cast my lot

with those who keep God's holy Sabbath

on the seventh day each week.

From this day forth,

I pledge to keep the Saturday Sabbath

as God has commanded us to do.

And I, too, shall be a Sabbath-keeper...

..from this day forward.

[crowd murmuring in agreement]

[birds squawking]

[Pastor] This morning, a member of our community,

Miss Ellen Harmon, has been asked to speak to us.

She will share some of what God has blessed her with of late.

[Eunice] Have faith. Just being here is an act of courage.

[Joseph] He is right.

Jesus kept the seventh day,

and following him is most important.

I support the Sabbath.

[Farnsworth] And what of this girl,

the one having visions in Maine?

I venture to make no opinion

without seeing for myself firsthand.

However, I would say she is doubtful to me.

Quite doubtful.

The Advent people were travelling on a path

toward a bright and Holy city.

The angel confirmed

that Father Miller's message was light

and that this date was the beginning of our journey,

not the end.

[Elizabeth] It's always about Ellen.

When is there ever time for anyone else?

Elizabeth Harmon!

How can you abandon your sister in such a way?

Have you considered that you may have abandoned me

at some point along the way?

Mother, you have more than one daughter.

[footsteps receding]

♪ We've come too far ♪

♪ To give up now

♪ We've taken the long road ♪

♪ To places we don't know ♪

♪ So far from home ♪

♪ We've been burned

♪ And we've been blessed ♪

♪ We've found faith In the fire ♪

♪ An unbreakable wire ♪

♪ Till the end ♪

♪ And I will do it again.♪

Have you had a chance to meet the Harmons yet?

[soft piano music]

What a pleasure to meet you again, Miss Harmon?

You might remember, I am James White.

I'm a pastor with the Christian Connection.

I've made the acquaintance of your Father.

We distributed pamphlets together before.

Well, it's a pleasure, Mr White.

I've heard many good things about your work for the Lord.

I have heard such a thing before,

yet it comes as a true surprise to me.

Is it wrong for me to ask your age, Miss Harmon?

I will be 18 on my next birthday.

And you, Mr White, how old would you be?

I'm 23 years old.

And you have put yourself in the service of the Lord?

Yes. I left teaching to spread the Word.

Hm.

Her visions do not come from God, Mr Nichols!

But, my friends, how can you be so sure?

Brother Otis, if Almighty God had a message for his people,

would he choose to send it in such a frail mouthpiece?

The girl can barely walk. She stands yea high.

Her father is a hat-maker.

Brothers, our Lord Jesus Himself warned us,

"Beware of false prophets,

"which come to you in sheep's clothing

"but inwardly they are ravening wolves!"

I have heard the visions overtake her, like a trance.

I'm acquainted with a neighbour

who has an aunt who lives in Maine.

She found her to be credible.

Have either of you seen the young woman?

No, and we shall not.

Ellen Harmon's visions are a lie of the Deceiver.

She would not dare to have one in my presence.

Aye! She could not, Mr Robbins.

The power of our faith would bind the devil's work.

She speaks with great tenderness

of the Word of the Lord.

Brother Nichols.

Do not be fooled.

[sombre music]

Joseph...

..I don't have enough flour to bake even one loaf of bread.

[sighs]

How much do you need?

At least two more cups.

Out searching for Jesus, are we, Mr Bates?

I think he went that way.

No, wait... maybe over there.

[men snickering]

[man] Perhaps he can loan him some money.

What can I do for you today, Joseph?

Just some flour.

However much this will buy.

Whoa...

Welcome. Welcome.

We are so honoured to have you here with us.

Thank you. The honour is ours.

Shall I carry you up the step to the house, Miss Harmon?

Oh, no, thank you, Brother Otis. I shall walk.

You have grown stronger, it seems.

Yes, thank you. I am feeling better each day.

[whispers] Surely this humble, gentle girl

is no child of Satan.

Is this our evening supper?

It is that.

Do we have any jam or apple butter?

Not unless you picked some up while you were out.

Prudy...

..I spent the last money I have on earth to buy that flour.

First the farm to the Millerite cause,

and then our friends and family to scorn us.

Our son to the sea.

Now all of our money is gone?

We must pray. The Lord will provide.

Joseph, please...

..have you nothing more to offer?

[melancholy music]

Mr Robbins! Mr Sargent! What a happy surprise!

I had prayed that you might meet Ellen Harmon,

and God has answered!

Come in, come in!

-The Harmon girl...? -Is here?

She arrived a few days ago to share with us.

Mr Robbins, um...

..we have forgotten to visit your sick friend.

Oh! Uh... yes! I have a friend. He is sick.

And we had made a previous commitment.

You cannot come in? Just for a few moments of introduction?

Not possible.

If you cannot stay,

I could bring Miss Harmon to meet you in Boston.

-This Sunday. -We would not allow--

Ah... why, yes! That... that sounds like a fine plan!

Bring the young Harmon woman to Boston!

We will meet with her on Sunday! [chuckles]

Travelling mercies, my brothers!

I shall say a prayer of healing for your friend.

[rooster crowing in distance]

[rooster crowing loudly]

-[Otis] Good morning, Ellen. -Did you sleep well?

I...

Well...

What is it, dear?

We are so grateful for your hospitality.

I know that you feel that we should go to Boston...

..but I have been instructed to go to the township of Randolph.

Why... 'tis nothing in Randolph for you,

unless you desire a new pair of leather boots.

Do you need new boots?

I would love new boots.

All I know is that we must go to the Thayer home in Randolph.

But to what end? Help us, Ellen. We do not understand.

Nor do I.

I have only enough light to see the step before me,

and that is to go to Randolph.

God has promised me that when I arrive there,

He shall reveal why.

Have you any mail for me, Mr Drew?

Ah, yes, Mr Bates. As a matter of fact, I do.

There is, um, five cents postage due.

Sir... I do not have the money.

You can bring it in when you see fit.

That would be wrong, sir.

I have not five cents to my name.

Joseph, I'll take your word

that you'll find a way to repay the debt.

Matthew...

..if you... if you would open it...

..I would be more comfortable.

[Matthew] "I send you this in the name of the Lord."

[sniffles]

[chuckles]

When you deliver these goods to my home,

my wife will say you've made a mistake, but pay her no mind.

Certainly, Captain Bates.

-[footsteps receding briskly] -[sighs]

Why, it's the Nichols!

What brings you to Randolph?

The Word of the Lord.

We have Ellen Harmon and her sister Sarah

with us from Maine.

[stammering] I...

We...

What can I say?

"Welcome" would be a start.

Oh...

Brother Otis Nichols and his wife Mary have brought guests.

Ellen Harmon and her sister Sarah.

[low voice] I thought you said they wanted us in Boston?

[low voice] 'Tis clear they do not want us at all.

Brothers and sisters, as I was saying, uh...

The Lord impresses upon my heart that we should adjourn.

After luncheon, we will continue to speak God's Word.

[Otis] And Mr Sargent told me just a few days ago

for me to bring Ellen to meet him and Mr Robbins

today in Boston.

So what has brought you to Randolph?

Ellen had instruction from God.

♪ O, when shall I see Jesus And reign with Him above ♪

♪ And shall hear the trumpet Sound in that morning? ♪

♪ And from The flowing fountain ♪

♪ Drink everlasting love ♪

♪ And shall hear the trumpet Sound in that morning ♪

♪ O, shout, glory ♪

♪ For I shall mount...♪

-Glory! -♪ Above the skies-- ♪

[singing trails off]

Glory.

Glory.

Let's sing.

♪ O, shout, glory ♪

-♪ For I shall mount above... -Here, stay clear of her!

Let us read from God's Word.

"Thou shalt have no other gods before me.

"Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image,

"or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above,

"or that is in the earth beneath,

"or that is in the water under the earth--"

Oh, be quiet, you fool!

You are bowing to an idol!

Don't you see, you are worshipping a golden calf?!

I have heard that visions from Satan can be stopped

by putting a Bible on the person.

Here. You place it on her.

-No. No... -Very well, I'll do it myself.

"Thou hast turned my mourning into dancing.

"Thou hast put off my sackcloth and girded me with gladness."

[soft, wondrous music]

"There is a way which seemeth right unto a man,

"but to the end thereof are the ways of death."

She quotes from the verse beneath her finger!

[hushed gasping, murmuring]

-[woman] Amen. -[man] Hallelujah.

[animated whispering]

[wondrous music builds]

[music crescendos]

[gentle music]

[Justice of the Peace] I now pronounce you man and wife.

Mr and Mrs James White.

Congratulations.

Thank you.

[Ellen] Ellen White...

Has a lovely ring to it, don't you think?

Yes, it does.

The name fits you well... Mrs White.

[coy chuckle]

What is wrong?

I had always envisioned this moment in a church.

-[soft music] -[man vocalising wistfully]

[vocalising continues]

Jesus himself says in the gospel,

"If you love me, keep mycommandments."

Verse 12 tells of the people

who will take this message to the world,

"Here are they... who keep the commandments of God

"and have the faith of Jesus."

[hushed chatter]

Thank you.

That was truly inspiring, Brother Curtis.

We are so delighted

to have you and your new husband here, Sister White.

The Lord has shown us the truth

in Brother Bates' message on the Sabbath.

Glory to God!

-[people hushing] -Ellen?

[Mr Curtis] Give Sister White some room.

[Ellen] Twinkling lights.

Stars.

As many as the sands upon the shore.

[ship bell ringing]

[Charles] People were surely taking notice

of Mrs White's visions, weren't they, Father?

Yes, but it wasn't her visions alone

that were causing others to believe.

So they weren't following Mrs White?

No. Mrs White's visions were only a confirmation

of the truths others had found in reading God's Word.

Mrs White was the first

to correct anyone who said otherwise.

If I'd known you were coming home, I'd have something more

to serve than just turnips and biscuits.

I desire nothing more than this plate and your company.

Where did the Lord lead you this time, Captain?

She had a vision... right in front of me.

I was wrong to doubt her, Prudy.

Mmm!

[Ellen humming gently]

What's wrong?

-What's wrong? -Yes, Ellen, what's wrong?

-[Ellen sighs deeply] -You're pacing back and forth.

We work so hard to study God's Word,

and yet I still cannot understand the Scriptures

that you and the others wrestle over.

-[baby cries] -[James] Ellen...

I feel as if I am always on the outside looking in.

Ellen, when we come into an impasse,

God gives you in vision the clarification from His Word.

But when I am not in vision, it is as if my mind

is locked to understanding the Scriptures.

[baby cries]

Perhaps God is protecting you

so that people cannot falsely claim our message

is based on your visions instead of on God's Word.

[baby continues crying]

Must we go to Connecticut for this conference at the Belden's?

I think it would be wise that we attend.

[baby continues crying]

But we have no money, James.

I am to be paid next week for cutting wood.

I expect $10 for my labours.

I cannot mind my child and travel!

I cannot.

-I will not. -[firmly] You will.

We need your gifts to keep us focused on the Scripture.

And what of the needs of our family, James?

[baby continues crying]

Where do those come in?

[James] Aw...

[baby continues crying]

[crying continues in distance]

[pensive music]

-[inaudible] -[wondrous orchestral music]

[machinery cranking]

[indistinct chatter]

[wondrous music continues]

[speaking indistinctly]

[music crescendos]

[music fades]

[man sighing]

We've had some very passionate discussion this morning.

Four years ago, would you have imagined

worshipping on Saturday?

Mmm. 'Tis true.

Common ground can be found when we come together.

As Jesus said, "If you love me, keep my commandments."

And if you love me, you'll wait till everybody is ready to eat.

[Joseph chuckles softly]

[chuckles]

[Charles] One day I would like for people

to read a paper I printed.

Perhaps they shall, son.

But, remember, publishing can be hard work

and printing was very expensive.

The financial and physical strain began to take its toll.

[coughs wheezily]

Oh, we must find a way to treat your lungs.

It's another letter from John Andrews and John Loughborough.

-That can't be bad. -Read it.

Brother Andrews labours all week to earn a living.

His eyesight is going.

His voice is nearly gone from preaching on weekends.

And I wish those were our only troubles.

The landlord has sent a notice regarding next year's rent.

[Ellen groans]

Fourteen dollars and fifty cents a month.

What are we to do?

We could move.

You would pack up and go west?

We have visited before.

You yourself said the people were so kind.

The Battle Creek brethren

want the responsibility of publishing.

Hm. Battle Creek...

It hardly sounds inviting.

Haven't you been battling most of your life?

Could suit you well to live in such a town.

Is that so?

[James coughing]

[Ellen] But we must continue to publish, James!

Each week we receive more letters.

We cannot continue - our debts have grown too large.

I'm telling him this issue will be our last.

Something will happen to change this course.

Feel free to pray for a miracle.

Barring that, we cannot continue.

[scoffs]

[exasperated sigh]

[Uriah Smith] The sisters are bringing over mattresses

and a table with two chairs.

The building down the street has more room

for the boys to run about.

The first house of worship will be ready in a few weeks.

Thank you, Uriah. You are a blessing to our family.

[James coughing]

[continues coughing]

[James coughing wheezily]

[hoarsely] I want you to know

I have put our house here in your name.

I will not hear such talk.

[James] Hm.

If God should bid me rest in my grave,

I will not leave a widow with three children and no home.

I will not.

I have faith that the Lord will not take you from us.

There is much work left for you to do, Mr White.

[coughs]

We shall continue to wait upon the Lord.

[continues coughing]

Over the next few years,

Brother White's health improved enough

for he and Ellen to begin travelling again.

They took the message far and wide.

[stirring music]

We meet on this the seventh day of the week.

The day on which He rested after creating the world.

[baby crying]

It has come to us from New York City.

How much did it cost?

Six hundred and fifty-two dollars, Annie.

[James coughs]

Oh, Lord have mercy...

But word has gone out in the 'Review',

and already funds are coming back to pay the loan.

-[James coughing] -It's a miracle.

Our work has really begun.

[Ellen] Brother Hewitt, Brother Lyon,

we are so grateful for your help.

We will offer these Bibles for sale on our next trip,

in addition to our books.

Sister Ellen, we fear it is too much travel.

We cannot risk losing either of you.

[Ellen sighing] Oh, Brothers...

..even when you lay my cold body in this hard earth,

I shall not be lost.

Good day, gentlemen.

There has to be a better way.

-[wind blowing softly] -[leaves rustling]

[baby wailing in distance]

[wailing continues]

Our poor son. He's hot as fire.

[sings gently] ♪ Rock of Ages

♪ Cleft for me ♪

♪ Let me hide myself In thee...♪

[baby continues wailing]

[wailing ceases]

[solemn music]

♪ Just to be with you

♪ I wanna be with you ♪

♪ This heart of mine ♪

♪ Was made to fall into you ♪

♪ From the morning sun ♪

♪ To kingdom come ♪

♪ This heart of mine ♪

♪ Was made for your love ♪

♪ Flesh and bones

♪ This beating heart

♪ You're all I need ♪

-♪ You're all I want... -[Ellen sobbing faintly]

♪ Through and through

♪ I was made ♪

♪ For you.♪

29 days ago we lost our baby boy, John.

I understand the grief of King David

when he lost his child.

My son, my son...

..would God I had died for thee.

But I come before you today...

..January 12th 1861,

to tell you that I have been shown in vision

that more States will join South Carolina

in the secession,

and a terrible war will result.

I saw large armies razed by both the North and the South.

I saw the raging battle, I heard the booming cannon -

the dead, the wounded falling on every side.

This war will be fought over slavery

and the stubbornness of those who refuse

to see the truth of God.

The law requiring us to deliver a slave to his master...

..we must never obey.

"Now, therefore, I, Abraham Lincoln,

"President of the United States,

"by virtue of the power in me

"vested by the Constitution and the laws,

"have thought fit to call forth

"the militia of the several States of the Union,

"to the aggregate number of 75,000..."

-[dramatic music swells] -[men hollering faintly]

-[distant explosions, gunfire] -[men screaming faintly]

[gunfire, screaming continue]

[booming explosion]

[gunfire, screaming fade]

[fire crackling]

[dog barking in distance]

[birds twittering]

[James] This war is a terrible tragedy for our nation.

That it is. How I wish man would heed the Word of God.

How is your health, Brother White?

You need more rest.

The Lord leads, and we follow.

[James sighs]

[James] We've had two days of discussion.

Progress has been made.

It's important that everyone be heard, James.

Do I have a motion to create a publishing association?

[men murmur in agreement]

Under the laws of Michigan,

we cannot incorporate a publishing work

until we choose a name.

[men muttering]

Gentlemen!

Let us not back down

from what we have spent the last two days resolving.

This child of ours has been created,

and is now so grown

that it is exceedingly awkward to have no name for it.

We have been called "the people of the shut door".

Should that be part of our name?

[unfavourable murmuring]

I say we call our association "The Church of God".

Others have that name already.

But 'tis the case.

[indifferent murmuring]

Perhaps we should look at our two Pillars of faith -

the Sabbath and the Second Coming of Jesus.

What do we say to being called

the "Seventh-day Adventists"?

[intrigued murmuring]

[excited chatter]

Do we have a motion?

I make a motion that we call ourselves

Seventh-day Adventists.

[lively murmurs of agreement]

[soaring music]

Hmm. It's perfect.

-[inaudible chatter] -[soaring music continues]

[soft music]

[quill scribbling]

Still you are writing.

All these days later?

I understand it better when I put the ideas on paper.

It was a vision concerning our health.

Hmm. Will you read me some of it?

[tapping quill]

I saw that tobacco in any form is a slow and malignant poison.

But 'tis often said tobacco has healing value.

I am only telling you what I have seen.

Alcohol, tea and coffee are to be avoided.

[groans quietly]

We should dispense of meat,

and return instead to the diet of Eden -

grains, vegetables, nuts, fruit.

Did the Lord really show you that?

[wry chuckle]

How are we to live without meat?

[inhales sharply] It gets worse.

Oh...

Rich cakes and sweet pies are to be avoided. [chuckles]

[both laugh]

[Ellen shushing, chuckling]

There's more.

Our body requires pure water, exercise and clean air.

[inhales deeply]

[exhales heavily]

Caring for our health is a spiritual matter.

I shall continue.

[tapping quill]

[birds twittering]

Edson!

Edson!

Hands.

[water sploshing]

Our heavenly Father,

we thank you for blessing us with this nourishment

and this delicious meal.

In your name, amen.

[boys] Amen.

Father, will you pass the onions?

-James! -Father!

James!

James! Ja--!

Boys, go get the doctor.

James. James...

Oh... I'm right here. I'm right here.

[doctor] You have facial paralysis.

It's common after this kind of incident.

Tell me now what we must do.

Rest is the most important thing. Lots of it.

And then I'm in favour of bloodletting.

-Bloodletting? -Mmm.

I do not think that that is--

The barber on Main Street will receive my instructions.

He has the proper instruments for the incisions.

Draining blood is known to be

the most effective treatment following stroke.

We shall consider that avenue once James is well enough

-for this procedure. -[sighs]

You are not a physician, Mrs White.

I'll be back in the morning.

Stroke is a powerful thing.

You're lucky to be alive, Mr White.

Thank you.

Boys, please show the good doctor to the door.

[exhales softly]

[sighs deeply]

I have put two sons in the ground, Mr White.

You are going nowhere.

The good Lord has borrowed the use of your right side

to see to that.

He will find the best way to bring you back to good health.

[Charles] I didn't realise Brother White

had been sick so often.

When I am ill, I don't want to leave my bed.

[Charles] Were you worried about them, Father?

I had moved to Waukon, Iowa,

to farm and work on my own health.

I had hoped that your mother and I

would be able to live a simple life working the land, but...

..God and Mrs White had other plans.

[tapping quill]

[Joseph] Today we inaugurate

the Western Health Reform Institute.

Moving forward,

health care will be a principle concern for our church.

[Ellen] I have seen that complete rest alone

does not bring healing.

It needs to be linked with exercise...

..diet...

..and faith in God.

These plans are not only for healing, but for prevention.

We have only to look for inspiration in this project

at the progress in health made by our dear Brother James.

[crowd applauding]

[crowd cheering]

[Ellen] In my most recent vision,

the heavenly messenger has said, that we are,

"entertaining ideas that are too limited for this time".

[David] And what of our plans for the Pacific Press?

[Henry] Where's the money coming from?

[Elder] Surely our resources are better used here at home.

[animated murmuring]

[tapping cane] Order!

How can we question this duty?

Souls are perishing who may now be reached.

-[murmuring continues] -[man] But at what cost...?

They're sending Brother Andrews to Switzerland!

[cheering, applauding]

[excited chatter]

[curious melodic music]

[music builds]

[music crescendos]

[music fades]

[groans sleepily]

Is it morning?

Yes, son.

Try and get some more rest.

Father! I... I fell asleep.

Did I miss any of the story?

No, my sweet.

You didn't miss anything.

How does the story end, Father?

The Bible says that the good news of Jesus

and his soon return must go to all of the world

and then He will return to take us home.

Today is only the beginning.

[gentle piano music]

[ship horn blaring]

♪ I know the night seems long

♪ When the lights ♪

♪ Have all gone out ♪

♪ And the rain just keeps on

♪ Pouring down ♪

♪ Down ♪

♪ When will it stop? ♪

♪ When you're waiting

♪ And waiting ♪

♪ Lift up your eyes ♪

♪ To heaven

♪ It's gonna get better ♪

♪ Hope is on the way ♪

♪ Yeah-eah ♪

♪ It's gonna get better

♪ The sun will come again ♪

♪ Yeah-eah ♪

♪ You don't have to be afraid ♪

♪ Hope is on the way

♪ When you can't Find the words to say ♪

♪ The weight of the world ♪

♪ Is feeling heavy ♪

♪ And when the promised land Seems far away ♪

♪ Hold on to faith ♪

♪ It is not too late ♪

♪ When you're waiting ♪

♪ And waiting ♪

♪ For something to change ♪

♪ Look up to heaven♪

♪ It's gonna get better♪

♪ Hope is on the way ♪

♪ Yeah

♪ It's gonna get better ♪

♪ The sun will come again ♪

♪ Yeah-eah ♪

♪ You don't have to be afraid ♪

♪ Ah-ah-ah ♪

♪ 'Cause I'm never

♪ Giving up on you ♪

♪ Never giving up on you ♪

♪ I'm never giving up on you ♪

♪ No matter what you say

♪ Or do ♪

♪ I'm never giving up on you ♪

♪ I'm never, never ♪

♪ Never ♪

♪ Ohhh ♪

♪ I'm never giving up on you ♪

♪ I'm never giving up on you ♪

♪ I'm never giving up on you ♪

♪ Ohh-ho ♪

♪ No matter what you say ♪

♪ Or do ♪

♪ I'm never giving up on you ♪

♪ I'm never, never ♪

♪ Never ♪

♪ I'm never giving up on you ♪

♪ I'm never giving up on you

♪ Hope is on the way.

[song ends]

[wondrous orchestral music]

[music fades]