Pioneers of the Wild West: Exploring Faith, History & Courage with Jim Wibberding

Pioneers, Faith & the Wild West: Jim Wibberding on Adventism's Journey West | Religious History Deep Dive
📖 In this captivating episode, we sit down with Jim Wibberding, theology professor at Pacific Union College and author of Walking With the Pioneers: The Captivating Story of West Coast Adventism, 1859–1909. This is more than just a historical interview — it’s a powerful exploration of how faith, frontier life, and community-building intersected in early America.
From the rugged trails of New England to the booming mission fields of California, Seventh-day Adventist pioneers helped shape the religious and cultural landscape of the American West. Through Jim’s deep research and storytelling, we uncover the spiritual struggles, societal challenges, and groundbreaking innovations that marked the Adventist expansion into the Pacific frontier.
🔍 What You’ll Discover in This Interview:
The early days of Adventism and its roots in New England revivalism
How California’s frontier culture shaped a new kind of Adventist identity
Stories of key pioneers like Ellen G. White and Merritt Kellogg
The founding of Adventist educational, healthcare, and publishing institutions
The role of faith, resilience, and diversity in building a long-lasting legacy
Reflections on how these early movements still influence modern Adventism today
Whether you’re passionate about American religious history, intrigued by the spirit of the Wild West, or seeking inspiration from faith-led innovation, this episode offers rich insights and historical depth.
🕰️ Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
01:30 – Jim Wibberding’s Background & Academic Work
04:15 – Origins of Seventh-day Adventism
10:00 – Journey West: How California Shaped the Movement
18:00 – Leadership and Legacy of Ellen White
25:00 – Building Institutions: Education, Healthcare, and Publishing
32:00 – Reflections on Faith, Diversity, and Long-Term Impact
🔗 Learn more about Jim Wibberding’s work at PUC.edu
📚 Check out his latest books on Amazon and Audible
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