Dear Highlands,
We have an important update we want to share with you.
As many in our community are aware, one of our former pastors, Derek Nelson, was accused of sexual abuse by two former male staff members in May 2020. Highlands immediately investigated these allegations, and we promptly terminated Nelson’s employment when the allegations were confirmed to be credible.
We recently learned that Nelson has been arrested and will likely face criminal charges for additional alleged actions that took place during his tenure at Highlands.
We continue to be saddened by the grievous offenses committed by Nelson and are ready to support any survivors in their journey towards healing. We are also committed to making our church a safe place to worship. As you know, we have taken many steps towards improving safety and accountability in our church. Specifically, Highlands commissioned a third-party investigation by GRACE (Godly Response to Abuse in a Christian Environment), and this report was shared with our congregation in May 2023. We have also implemented GRACE’s twenty-six recommendations, including improved policies, training, and reporting avenues. Furthermore, Highlands has worked collaboratively with the Renton Police Department throughout its investigation of Nelson during the past two years. Our desire is to continue communicating transparently about these events. While there is still work to be done, by God’s grace, we will continue taking steps toward greater health and faithfulness as a church.
If you have any questions about these events or need pastoral support to process this news, please send a message to our elder portal or speak with one of our elders on a Sunday morning in between worship services. We want to walk alongside our church family and encourage one another to keep trusting Christ in all circumstances.
Finally, please be praying for the survivors and families who have been impacted by Nelson’s actions and for the Nelson family, as well as for God to bring about justice and mercy in His church and in our community.
Highlands Elders