Reflecting upon my life, God was always there, nudging me in His way. I was on the student council in elementary and high school. He led me to Trinity Western to learn liberal arts. He knew my heart for serving people and gave me 15 years in the nonprofit industry. And He called me to run for office. God opens and closes doors to lead me where He wants me to serve.
From a young age, God instilled big dreams in my heart. I read the biography of Theodore Roosevelt when I was 16 and felt inspired to be a politician. Afterall, politicians have a lot of influence. People listened to them. I could tell others about Christ! A tiny seed had been planted and so I studied Political Science and worked on Parliament Hill in Ottawa.
My first job out of college was at a nonprofit, a chaplaincy foundation that supported marketplace professionals in Vancouver. I got the job simply to pay off my student loans. Looking back, even these little steps was God shaping my life. Every job I’ve had has contribute to my skills and character today. With Samaritan’s Purse I had the opportunity to serve on the homefront in Vancouver and abroad in Costa Rica. Following, I spent time in the Downtown Eastside with Union Gospel Mission as a fundraiser.
My paternal grandmother came to Christ at an orphanage in the 1930s. It astounded me that the ministry of a young woman, Ruth Hitchcock, has ripple effects into my life generations later. I was inspired to be a missionary too. I diligently attended Missions Fest every year, talking to every booth and even applying for some programs. Nothing ever worked out; doors were closed. I lived my life waiting for ‘the call’. I didn’t own a vehicle or any furniture. I was eager to obey and go.
I met my husband through online dating. He lived in Victoria and it wasn’t long before I picked up my life and moved to Victoria. It was easy since I had no assets.
After 15 years in nonprofits, I quit my job and threw my hat in the ring for municipal council. The seed of interest in politics flourished all the more with my own candidacy. Through running in 2 elections, I had the opportunity to listen to tens of thousands of people in Victoria. Having 2 young children, I hadn’t planned on running again in 2022; however, I felt the nudge of the Holy Spirit and encountered God countless times throughout the campaign. I was bursting to testify of God’s goodness after the election.
The following Spring, I was approached by Jason Goertzen, a Spiritual Care Provider for MLAs to consider becoming a chaplain alongside himself. Ministry had always been a part of my life and modus operandi in addition to my full time job. A calling into full-time ministry isn’t something I take lightly so I responded to the invitation by giving myself 1-3 years season of discernment.
I prayerfully considered the opportunity. In my discernment process, I’ve sought the godly counsel of my pastors, friends, and other chaplains. Reflecting on my life’s journey thus far, I can see the building blocks God has placed together to culminate to this calling. Every step of the way, as I pursued my passions, God has steered me towards fundraising, governance, and Victoria.
When He called me to study politics, He was preparing me to learn about policy and governance.
When He called me to nonprofit fundraising, He was preparing me to raise my own support and rely on his providence.
When He called me to Victoria, He was putting down roots where I am to serve.
When He called me to the polls, He was preparing me to empathize with the public scrutiny politicians face.
I’m writing to you invite you to join me on this amazing journey. As a Spiritual Care Provider for MLAs in Victoria, my aim is to provide emotional and spiritual support to our leaders in British Columbia. I will be ministering alongside Jason under the support and accountability of Leading Influence, a national chaplaincy organization.
I ask that you prayerfully consider financially supporting me in this ministry. The money I raise determines my capacity to serve while raising my young family. As this is a long-term ministry, I hope you will consider supporting me monthly so that I may have some security of income. Please join me with your prayer and financial support.
If you would like to meet with me to hear even more stories of God’s faithfulness, I am eager to tell you more.
In humble gratitude,
Anna King