In 1880, George King tried to be a great Adventist preacher. He wanted to teach people about God and the prophecies. He practiced much to do that, but he was not a talented public speaker. Devastated, he thought his ministry in life was over. Little did he know, it was only beginning.

A few days after his realization of his lack of public speaking skills, George left his friends' house with a bag. Inside it, he had a Bible, some pamphlets, a few books, and some food. He became the first "fireside" preacher, going from home to home, telling people about the truth of salvation and forgiveness. This failed preacher founded one of the most successful evangelistic programs of bringing literature about salvation to many homes that would not have access to a preacher otherwise. Its fruits will only be fully known in the Kingdom of Heaven.

Mabio and Juscileide Gomes testify, "When our family got involved in canvassing during our youthful years, we learned a lot of lessons, acquired skills, and grew an unshakable faith in the promises of God. It is a privilege for us to be ambassadors of the 'fireside' preacher, or in the Canvassing Ministry, as most people know it today. We would like to dedicate this scholarship to all those who have decided to engage in this ministry in the hope that every youth can become as excited in this ministry as we were, have their faith grow stronger, and, most importantly, fill Heaven with sons and daughters of God."

Scholarship award requirements

This scholarship is awarded to a student who has canvassed for at least one summer, has good conduct, has financial need, and is maintaining an overall GPA of 3.0.