Adventism

Any of several Christian denominations that believe in the literal and imminent second coming of Christ and the imminent end of the world. These beliefs are found in most periods of history. William Miller (1781-1849) began a movement in the United States based on his prediction that Christ would return in 1843-44. Miller's followers, who formed the denomination called Seventh Day Adventists, believe that Christ's second coming is delayed solely by a failure to keep the Sabbath. Seventh Day Adventists rigorously follow laws of Sabbath observance as well as Old Testament dietary laws.