Testimonials
Be inspired for your own journey...
Below are stories from clients regarding their experiences with Merri Ellen in the following:
1) private sessions
2) group coaching
3) attending her events & retreats
Session Stories:
Val grew up in a Christian home, always going to church, learning about Jesus and God as a Father, but she didn't really understand the Holy Spirit and was a bit scared of Him. Over the years, she had been involved in Bible studies and pursued a deeper relationship with Jesus. She sought guidance from other coaches, counselors, and attended workshops and retreats.
Then, in 2015, she came across a verse that kept appearing everywhere: Do not put out the Spirit's fire. Do not treat prophecies with contempt. Test everything and hold on to what is good. (1 Thessalonians 5:19-21 NLT)
She wanted to understand what it meant and how to apply it, so she asked Jesus to reveal Himself and speak to her clearly. That’s when the Lord reconnected us.
Val writes:
"I took part in one of Merri Ellen's 5 Day Kickstarts. I was nervous but eager for more of Jesus. During the Kickstart, we learned that God speaks to us in different ways, not just through the Bible. Other participants shared how they received messages through pictures, impressions, and strong feelings.
I started asking God to speak to me through pictures too, and He answered! He showed me meadows, streams, waterfalls, and even a trampoline. He revealed a treasure chest filled with coupons that said, "Unlimited time with Me". The more time I spent with Him, the more I desired Him.
While my relationship with God as Father and Jesus as my best friend deepened, I still felt uneasy about the Holy Spirit. So, I had a private session with Merri Ellen. These sessions were unique because instead of just sharing my heart, Merri Ellen guided me to encounter Jesus and ask Him questions. It was a beautiful experience.
One day before our session, I planned to fast and pray for breakthrough with the Holy Spirit. But Jesus revealed that we would meet at a banquet table, and He was preparing a feast for me. It wasn't a day for fasting; it was a day of abundance.
At the session, I envisioned God as Father at the head of the table, Jesus beside Him, and myself sitting between them on a folding chair. We chatted, and Jesus offered me bread, reminding me of His abundant provision. When I asked Jesus about my heart's wounds, I saw myself in the corner of the room, realizing feelings of abandonment and rejection. Jesus revealed specific instances but assured me that He had always been with me.
Then, Jesus showed me a glimpse of my own birth, countering the lies I believed about my identity. He stood in the delivery room, filled with joy as I was born—His chosen daughter, created with purpose.
Merri Ellen helped me identify the lies, crucify them, and walk forward in freedom. This session changed everything. I now believed in my heart that God doesn't make mistakes and that my identity is secure.
Returning to the banquet table, I found a solid wooden chair engraved with my name, seated beside Jesus. I could sense the Holy Spirit's presence, knowing the walls around my heart were finally gone. I was free!
I am more in love with the Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit than ever before. Their love is deep and life-changing. And there is always more to experience! God is bigger and kinder than we imagine. I can testify that as we embrace Him, He embraces us with gentleness and grace."
(Val Thiessen - from Chapter 9 - Flip Your Fear from the book: “God, Show Me More of You”)
Then, in 2015, she came across a verse that kept appearing everywhere: Do not put out the Spirit's fire. Do not treat prophecies with contempt. Test everything and hold on to what is good. (1 Thessalonians 5:19-21 NLT)
She wanted to understand what it meant and how to apply it, so she asked Jesus to reveal Himself and speak to her clearly. That’s when the Lord reconnected us.
Val writes:
"I took part in one of Merri Ellen's 5 Day Kickstarts. I was nervous but eager for more of Jesus. During the Kickstart, we learned that God speaks to us in different ways, not just through the Bible. Other participants shared how they received messages through pictures, impressions, and strong feelings.
I started asking God to speak to me through pictures too, and He answered! He showed me meadows, streams, waterfalls, and even a trampoline. He revealed a treasure chest filled with coupons that said, "Unlimited time with Me". The more time I spent with Him, the more I desired Him.
While my relationship with God as Father and Jesus as my best friend deepened, I still felt uneasy about the Holy Spirit. So, I had a private session with Merri Ellen. These sessions were unique because instead of just sharing my heart, Merri Ellen guided me to encounter Jesus and ask Him questions. It was a beautiful experience.
One day before our session, I planned to fast and pray for breakthrough with the Holy Spirit. But Jesus revealed that we would meet at a banquet table, and He was preparing a feast for me. It wasn't a day for fasting; it was a day of abundance.
At the session, I envisioned God as Father at the head of the table, Jesus beside Him, and myself sitting between them on a folding chair. We chatted, and Jesus offered me bread, reminding me of His abundant provision. When I asked Jesus about my heart's wounds, I saw myself in the corner of the room, realizing feelings of abandonment and rejection. Jesus revealed specific instances but assured me that He had always been with me.
Then, Jesus showed me a glimpse of my own birth, countering the lies I believed about my identity. He stood in the delivery room, filled with joy as I was born—His chosen daughter, created with purpose.
Merri Ellen helped me identify the lies, crucify them, and walk forward in freedom. This session changed everything. I now believed in my heart that God doesn't make mistakes and that my identity is secure.
Returning to the banquet table, I found a solid wooden chair engraved with my name, seated beside Jesus. I could sense the Holy Spirit's presence, knowing the walls around my heart were finally gone. I was free!
I am more in love with the Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit than ever before. Their love is deep and life-changing. And there is always more to experience! God is bigger and kinder than we imagine. I can testify that as we embrace Him, He embraces us with gentleness and grace."
(Val Thiessen - from Chapter 9 - Flip Your Fear from the book: “God, Show Me More of You”)
“I was losing hope and to hear the Spirit’s voice again. Having Merri Ellen guide me through some exercises has been a gift.
I have been able to hear God’s voice in our sessions. Holy Spirit has been guiding our conversations, revealing things to us.
Before meeting with Merri Ellen, I found I was so stuck in my own head with my own thoughts that I was unable to discern between God’s truth and Satan’s lies.
I really appreciated having the prayer and guidance with Merri Ellen’s direction. I appreciated having someone to walk alongside me and help me to sift through my thoughts and discern what is from God and what isn’t.
I have been to many counsellors and Merri Ellen brings a uniqueness I haven’t had. Authenticity, willingness to share, honesty, encouraging words and allowing God to intervene and direct our time together.
Allowing God into every session makes all the difference. Before meeting with Merri Ellen, I was numb—feeling spiritually dead. Stuck in the depression. I wasn’t finding the motivation to do the things I wanted to do and I felt spiritually disconnected.
Today, I feel more spiritually alive. I look forward to coming each time to meet with Merri Ellen.”
(Nicole Gelderman)
"Before I met with Merri Ellen, I needed an outside person to hold space for me in my trauma. I needed wisdom, a different perspective, and affirmation.
Merri Ellen gave me space to just say what was on my heart without having to worry about judgement. She brought me clarity, and a different perspective.
I didn’t hire her sooner out of fear and pride. As a counsellor myself, I worried about confidentiality and judgement. I also worried that she would be fluffy and soft, or stuffy and clinical. Not at all. Merri Ellen is not fluffy and I trusted her to keep my life and brokenness confidential.
What I enjoyed most was her Bible knowledge. She intentionally brings God into the session, and gently but directly addresses the issues. She provides insights and highlights that have been important along the way. I benefited the most with… Clarity. Relief. Confirmation.
She’s been an important part of my healing journey. Having her hold space for me validated my pain and my situation.
If you’re on the fence about meeting with Merri Ellen, get off. Meeting with her is good self-care. It is different than talking to friends because you don't have to worry about burdening or overdoing it in sharing with her.
Just get over yourself and go.... she’s great!"
(Client and herself a Clinical Counsellor)
I have been able to hear God’s voice in our sessions. Holy Spirit has been guiding our conversations, revealing things to us.
Before meeting with Merri Ellen, I found I was so stuck in my own head with my own thoughts that I was unable to discern between God’s truth and Satan’s lies.
I really appreciated having the prayer and guidance with Merri Ellen’s direction. I appreciated having someone to walk alongside me and help me to sift through my thoughts and discern what is from God and what isn’t.
I have been to many counsellors and Merri Ellen brings a uniqueness I haven’t had. Authenticity, willingness to share, honesty, encouraging words and allowing God to intervene and direct our time together.
Allowing God into every session makes all the difference. Before meeting with Merri Ellen, I was numb—feeling spiritually dead. Stuck in the depression. I wasn’t finding the motivation to do the things I wanted to do and I felt spiritually disconnected.
Today, I feel more spiritually alive. I look forward to coming each time to meet with Merri Ellen.”
(Nicole Gelderman)
"Before I met with Merri Ellen, I needed an outside person to hold space for me in my trauma. I needed wisdom, a different perspective, and affirmation.
Merri Ellen gave me space to just say what was on my heart without having to worry about judgement. She brought me clarity, and a different perspective.
I didn’t hire her sooner out of fear and pride. As a counsellor myself, I worried about confidentiality and judgement. I also worried that she would be fluffy and soft, or stuffy and clinical. Not at all. Merri Ellen is not fluffy and I trusted her to keep my life and brokenness confidential.
What I enjoyed most was her Bible knowledge. She intentionally brings God into the session, and gently but directly addresses the issues. She provides insights and highlights that have been important along the way. I benefited the most with… Clarity. Relief. Confirmation.
She’s been an important part of my healing journey. Having her hold space for me validated my pain and my situation.
If you’re on the fence about meeting with Merri Ellen, get off. Meeting with her is good self-care. It is different than talking to friends because you don't have to worry about burdening or overdoing it in sharing with her.
Just get over yourself and go.... she’s great!"
(Client and herself a Clinical Counsellor)
"Before I worked with Merri Ellen, I had been battling fear, depression, and anxiety.
I needed my life back.
I wanted someone to walk with me who was stable, safe and who offered me hope and results in my search to regain the truth. I was looking for answers and comfort.
In our sessions together, I have received freedom, peace, hope, life and comfort.
I look forward to every session and I’m always amazed at how only 50 mins per session can result in such amazing breakthrough.
I liked the most that our sessions together were fun. I’ve been able to receive such amazing help and growth while meeting.
Merri Ellen puts you at ease and is easy to relate to. I would recommend her services to anyone on the fence because its far beyond what you expect.
Merri Ellen knows Jesus, you can trust her.
She helps facilitate a Journey of discovery, healing and reestablishing you in Christ through the guidance of the Holy Spirit. I’ve had so much fun too.
I was introduced to Merri Ellen by a friend. I enjoy that she helps people listen for His voice.
Being able to hear from the Lord myself and how personal it is, is far more beneficial than without it. And after doing a couple of her 5 week journeys with a group of ladies I thought I would try it one on one because I felt I needed more personal support.
Three benefits I’ve experienced as a result of our sessions together?
Deliverance, Peace, and Hope!
Before I started meeting one on one with Merri Ellen, my life was sad, and less hopeful. These days I’m happier, closer to the Lord and I have a lot less fear and anxiety.
I love that in our sessions all the honour goes to the Lord!"
(Nicole Giffen)
I needed my life back.
I wanted someone to walk with me who was stable, safe and who offered me hope and results in my search to regain the truth. I was looking for answers and comfort.
In our sessions together, I have received freedom, peace, hope, life and comfort.
I look forward to every session and I’m always amazed at how only 50 mins per session can result in such amazing breakthrough.
I liked the most that our sessions together were fun. I’ve been able to receive such amazing help and growth while meeting.
Merri Ellen puts you at ease and is easy to relate to. I would recommend her services to anyone on the fence because its far beyond what you expect.
Merri Ellen knows Jesus, you can trust her.
She helps facilitate a Journey of discovery, healing and reestablishing you in Christ through the guidance of the Holy Spirit. I’ve had so much fun too.
I was introduced to Merri Ellen by a friend. I enjoy that she helps people listen for His voice.
Being able to hear from the Lord myself and how personal it is, is far more beneficial than without it. And after doing a couple of her 5 week journeys with a group of ladies I thought I would try it one on one because I felt I needed more personal support.
Three benefits I’ve experienced as a result of our sessions together?
Deliverance, Peace, and Hope!
Before I started meeting one on one with Merri Ellen, my life was sad, and less hopeful. These days I’m happier, closer to the Lord and I have a lot less fear and anxiety.
I love that in our sessions all the honour goes to the Lord!"
(Nicole Giffen)
"I contacted Merri Ellen when I was in a season of transition and change and needed to gain some insights as to where God was leading me and what direction He was going. I needed confidence and to overcome some fears.
What I enjoy most about my sessions with Merri Ellen is how she asks the right questions and allows me to hear the answers from the Holy Spirit for myself. So, it doesn’t build a dependency on someone to hear God for you, but builds your own confidence in being able to hear and see what God is saying and doing for myself. Very important.
I have received direction from the Lord and insights into my own journey.
Highlights of my very first session?
Encountering Jesus, the Father, the Holy Spirit through multiple visions. Being asked the right questions to find the answers God has. It (very first session) was so fluid, (it seemed that I was sitting in an open heaven, with no hinderances to seeing, hearing or feeling. Quite possibly one of the clearest encounters I’ve had in a long, long time.)
It was very freeing not having to take notes so I wasn’t afraid of forgetting what God had done.
A trusted friend referred me to her and I’m very glad for that! I immediately recommended her to my sister who has also had sessions with Merri Ellen. I told my sister this helped to encounter God in a fresh and effortless way.
Before I met with Merri Ellen, I felt stuck, blocked, fearful, uncertain. Since our sessions together, I have new tools to move forward and people in my circle who I can turn to when I do get stuck.
Merri Ellen didn’t give me answers, she helped me to find my own answers. She asked me the right questions. She opened the heavens, or provided a very clean spiritual atmosphere where it was easy to move and hear in the Holy Spirit. No spiritual interference of blockages.
Her ministry is a fountain of strength to others and I am blessed to drink from it. My heart is very grateful!
(Angela, Ministry Leader)
"My times of guided, imaginative prayer with Merri Ellen were transformational and deeply healing.
The benefit of a thoughtful, prayerful and Spirit-led guide to ask questions that point you to Jesus' heart was invaluable for me. I was often surprised which memories came up or what images God would give me.
More than once, the question of what Jesus longs to give you in exchange for your burdens was answered with a symbolic image and then in real life, repeated (for example, a compass as symbol of God's guidance and then three times in following weeks seeing a compass).
I'm grateful for Merri Ellen leading me to the beauty and kindness of Jesus that changed deeply stuck places."
(Melissa Weaver)
“My mom had passed away 6 months ago and I struggled with grieving her loss. It affected my children’s sleep and my emotions and how I handled life.
In my sessions with Merri Ellen, I realized that Jesus is closer to me and my situation. That him taking care of me covers my past, my present, and my future, and that healing can be real!
Praying together opened my eyes to why I was hurting so badly and Jesus took that lie away and spoke truth into it. My mom is not gone, she is with him.
One of the most helpful parts of our sessions is praying together but also the practical advice on how to deal with strong emotions.
I knew that working with Merri Ellen was the right thing for me to do after my friend had mentioned it to me. Jesus wants to tell you how to find your way back and Merri Ellen has a good way to get Jesus and you together in a room.
Before meeting with Merri Ellen, I was tired and very sad and angry. Since our sessions, I am happy. I found rest without sleep. I think it was new for me to pray for my family this way.
I was surprised how Merri Ellen knew what to ask me especially when we talked about my mom’s passing. The whole concept of lies and truth was most helpful.
It’s normal to get stuck, but it’s good to get unstuck together. I find the steps and her approach help me beyond the reasons why I come. I use it during the day when I feel stuck by myself. It has changed the way how I live my faith.”
(Birte Kroeker)
“Merri Ellen truly leans on the Holy Spirit to speak through her, she desires to give Godly advice and rely on the Word. Before I met with Merri Ellen, my life was a little chaotic, full of anxiety, and struggle.
These days, inviting the Spirit in and talking to Him helps me to keep perspective and crushes my anxiety! What has made me the happiest about my sessions with Merri Ellen is how energizing our sessions are.
Working in the power of the Holy Spirit is amazing and surprising!!!
Thanks so much to Merri Ellen, this has been a wonderful journey!”
(Gail Derksen)
Helen shares her story of what has happened in her journey with depression - since her first Online Kickstart event and journeying in the Freedom Circle for Women
To move forward in what God has for you, you may request coaching below.
(Please note: You may be notified of a waitlist depending on the season. Please simply request below to get the process started.)
“Before I met with Merri Ellen, my life direction was unfocused. Merri Ellen is brilliant at breaking down the fluff to get at the basic needs and wants. She helped me to determine and reach occupation goals.
What surprised me the most and brought such joy was her willingness to bring Jesus into our conversations.”
(Caralee Daigle)
What surprised me the most and brought such joy was her willingness to bring Jesus into our conversations.”
(Caralee Daigle)
Your story is ready to shift too!
For you,
for your family line,
for your loved ones,
for your calling...
by the blood of the lamb (Jesus)
and by the word of their testimony."
- Revelation 12:11
Or learn more about our events and retreats...
Retreats & Event Stories:
Be inspired by these testimonials from past events
"Bless you, Merri Ellen... for being the willing vessel the Lord is looking for, to be His new wineskins, carefully holding His precious Spirit, and dispensing it to all who are around you. You are all amazing, and I am so blessed and privileged... I feel I have seen and learned so much. Thank you!"
...
"Hi Merri Ellen,
I can't thank you enough for the wonderful experience of this event.
I wish to express my gratitude for your openness and for all the women who shared their stories. It is so powerful when a group of women can get together and be vulnerable and talk openly about their faith!
Again, Thanks be to God for your work with women and this Coaching Circle. We all need this!"
...
"God speaks to me!"
...
"Merri Ellen I cannot explain to you what's happening in my heart. God is good. Listening to the Holy Spirit is so much sweeter than all the other voices I've been hearing for years."
...
"I love the questions that we went through for various situations that helped lead us in meeting with Jesus and I really appreciate the scripture passages included in this teaching as well as the time we spent actually practicing what we were learning.
I have used what I learned in these sessions every day since and it has been a real paradigm shift for me and others around me as they have seen a change and excitement in me. I have been a believer since I was young but I have never experienced the kind of relationship with Jesus that I am now since putting into practice these ways of hearing God."
...
"I have learned some very valuable tools that I go through every day in my quiet time and when I pray for others. I pray for others in a whole new way and I am waking up expecting Jesus to meet with me each morning. I am so enjoying being in His presence, both on my own and with others."
"I've told so many people about you and how much I enjoyed learning from you. It's been amazing for me and I feel like I've really just begun on this journey!"
...
"Thank you so much for this. There is so much going on that I've been encouraged by since the course. Jesus is so amazing and I love the time I am spending with him. It's opened up a whole new way of seeing things... Kingdom perspective!"
...
"Meeting you was so timely. I was a believer for 17 years and just realized how misinformed I was. I don't think I believed my Good, Good Father. If people knew the truth of the Word, they would be free indeed."
...
“Hi Merri Ellen. I just wanted to thank you so much for putting on this event.
I grew up (in a traditional church) and felt like my faith was always being squelched. I was not supposed to get too excited. This weekend I learned that God IS bigger and wants to talk to me and I have found a new way to study scripture and its transformational.
...My friend invited me to this event and I spent all weekend with God. It was so amazing!! I have been sleeping better and not waking up with this feeling of dread. I am learning that He wants to be my best friend and the bridegroom I never had.
I love your passion and excitement and Jesus's love shines through you. Thank you again.”
...
More stories below...
Retreat Testimonial
*Merri Ellen's heart is to lead women to encounter God, and to equip and multiply, and you can see that in this feedback below...
"We invited Merri Ellen to do a retreat for us at Windword Ministries because we had never had a retreat at our church for women. In fact some of them had never been to a retreat and thought that it might be a conference. They were very nicely surprised and now know the difference between the two.
(Photo above is of a portion of the group who enjoyed a free time hike!)
The retreat brought women together that don’t go to regular women’s meetings and it built long lasting bonds and stronger friendships.
One special thing, among so many, that Merri Ellen carries is the ability to help women experience God personally. They encountered Him in ways that they never had before. When you experience God in ways like that you get to know God on a level above knowing about God and knowing who He is personally to you. We experienced that in powerful ways.
Our experience was so wonderful that our women’s leader is setting up a day to recreate that for women this next Saturday. You know it’s a good thing when people say, “Do it again God.” And that the how-to was simple enough you can experience again whenever you want.
Thank You Merri Ellen.
Merri Ellen is a wonderfully anointed woman and is full of fun and humility, to mention only a sliver of her qualities. She has the ability to work with people who are in a traditional church and the very charismatic without anyone feeling uncomfortable with her methods. She can read a room and knows how to proceed from there. This all comes from her intimate relationship with the Lord.
Her testimony alone gives her insight into being a good leader or being a good follower. I have seen her in both scenarios and she is a star. You can’t be a good leader if you aren’t a good follower.
She mixes well with the women and made a special effort to memorize everyone’s name. People’s names are very personal to them: that is why you don’t want to get it wrong but if you remember their name it makes you feel very special. That is how God sees us, special, He wants us to know we are special.
Merri Ellen’s warm heart, laughter and constant smile makes you feel comfortable and that you belong. We all need that.
If you have her work with your women you won’t be sorry, in fact your women will come back from their experience with a knowing of who they are in Christ."
Associate Pastor
Lona Lowe
Windword Church
*For event speaking requests, contact Merri Ellen below...
Contact
Location:
Sessions are via Zoom all over the world or in person if local to Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada. (Address provided up on request.)
Follow Updates Here:
Merri Ellen's Life Coaching & Spiritual Direction
