On Sunday afternoon, a few hours before the union conference council was to close, and three days before the Moana would sail, a farewell service was held in the Cooranbong church. The general community was invited to join the delegates. Several made appropriate remarks. As this was still a part of the union conference council, a resolution was introduced that read: 4BIO 458.3
That in view of Brother and Sister White departing soon for America, after a stay of nine years in Australasia, we hereby express our appreciation of their active and earnest efforts to establish the work in this country, our thankfulness for the success which has attended their labors, and wish them the rich blessing of God, and a safe and pleasant voyage homeward.—Ibid., October 1, 1900. 4BIO 458.4
Two autograph albums had been prepared, one for Ellen White and one for the W. C. White family. Both were beautifully bound, and each contained original drawings, photographs, and messages from churches and from individuals expressing appreciation, friendship, and love. As Elder Farnsworth presented these, he remarked “that they might find in these gifts a similarity to the ones taken to Egypt by the sons of Jacob, in that they were made up, figuratively speaking, of ‘a little balm, and a little honey, spices and myrrh, nuts, and almonds’” (Genesis 43:11).—Ibid. 4BIO 458.5
Ellen White's response was eagerly awaited. She declared that she was changing work but was still under the same Leader: 4BIO 458.6
Yesterday when I spoke to the congregation, all the time I felt my heart welling up with gratitude to God. Now we have but little time, and I want to say that I do not go to America because I feel driven to go on account of the burdens I have been carrying here. I feel that God has assisted me in the work here. I leave all the churches and the brethren and sisters with the most pleasant feelings. It means very much to me to know that our hearts are united, that we are one in the body of Jesus Christ, one in faith, one in hope.... I expect you will press the battle to the gate. I expect you will each act your part and close up the ranks.... 4BIO 458.7
I have not a tear to shed. I am only changing my work under the same General, and I go to another part of the field where they are calling earnestly for our help. 4BIO 459.1
I thank you for this token of your kind regard and remembrance. I shall esteem it highly. I shall bear in mind those I have met here, and our prayers will ascend that the blessing of the Holy Spirit shall be upon these believers who live in my heart, that they may advance from character to character, till in the heavenly courts, it shall be said, “Ye are complete in Him.”—Ibid. 4BIO 459.2