 A graduate of what is now Walla Walla University in College Place, Washington, Gordon began his work for the Seventh-day Adventist Church with pastoral ministry in Oregon and Washington state, as well as service as a Bible teacher at both Upper Columbia Academy and Milo Adventist Academy.He served in the White Estate as five years as director of the organization, which safeguards and promotes the writings and ministry of Ellen G. White, a pioneering founder of the movement.He traveled to more than 100 countries in his work with the White Estate, retiring in 1995.