Pour boiling water over raisins; drain well. Heat applesauce in saucepans over medium heat; stir in vegetable shortening until melted. Remove from heat. Combine brown sugar, flour and cinnamon in large mixer bowl. Dissolve soda in small amount of water. Combine applesauce mixture and soda mixture with flour mixture; blend thoroughly. Fold in raisins and nuts. Pour into greased 13 x 9 x 2 inch pan. Bake at 350ºF.  for 40 minutes or until cake tests done.