From Pastor Nate Hettinga
March 13, 1995
This letter of reference is given with great enthusiasm for Annie Nelson. I have known Annie personally for two years, have been aware of her ministry since 1991. I used her newsletter, Survivors & Friends, while pastoring in Oregon and counseling sexual abuse victims. Since meeting here at Northshore, I have grown to know and respect Annie. She currently serves as my administrative assistant.
Annie and her husband, Tim, actively serve in ministries here at Northshore such as choir, LIGHT (recovery groups) leadership, IMPACT (Bible study group) leadership, administrative support, and lay counseling.
Annie has the heart of an encourager. In our conversations, she is perpetually in the process of gathering women who have or are currently in crisis/abuse situations. She aids their growth through prayer, active intervention, scripture, and loving friendship.
The apostle Paul tells us that we give comfort from the comfort we have received. Annie has walked through the deep waters of coming to grips with her own sexual abuse. She is herself in process and transparently reveals her progress to those whom she serves and loves. As a result, she has a great deal to offer to the silent multitude of sexual abuse survivors. Women are drawn to her and helped by her. In fact, I am aware of at least two ladies this last year who would probably be dead but for the grace of God intervening through the hands and heart of Annie.
I highly recommend Annie and her ministry to you. You will find her to be a capable and warm-hearted woman who will speak the truth into difficult situations.
For his kingdom,
Note: Nate is now pastoring Cascade Community Church, a daughter church of Northshore Baptist Church, located in Monroe, Washington.