Chasing Dreams, Finding Trouble
Manny Mill's life is a remarkable story of transformation through Jesus. Born as a Cuban refugee and raised in Union City, New Jersey, Manny chased the American Dream, only to find himself entangled in illegal activities. His pursuit of wealth led him to forge checks, catching the attention of the FBI. Fleeing to Caracas, Venezuela, Manny's life spiraled into chaos. Yet, it was in this place of desperation that his mother, now a fervent believer, prayed earnestly for him.
God Found Me While Running
On January 28, 1986, Manny Mill's life took a dramatic turn. As he recounted, "The Lord Jesus Christ found me while I was running from the FBI in Caracas, Venezuela." This divine encounter marked the beginning of a new chapter. Manny chose to return to the United States, ready to face justice for his past actions.
Testimony of Salvation in Prison
Convicted of interstate transportation of forged checks, Manny was sentenced to three years in prison. He served nearly two years in Montgomery, Pennsylvania, where God transformed him from within. Manny became a leader in the prison church, immersing himself in the Bible and developing a strong foundation in faith.
Transformed Life in Ministry
Upon his release in April 1988, Manny was awarded the Charles W. Colson Scholarship to attend Wheaton College, where he graduated with both a B.A. and M.A. Inspired to give back, he established a mentoring house in Wheaton in 1991, which eventually led to the founding of Koinonia House National Ministries (KHNM) in 1997. This ministry has been instrumental in equipping churches to disciple former prisoners, with a significant impact on recidivism rates.
Manny's story is chronicled in his books, 'Radical Redemption' and 'Radical Prayer,' where he shares insights into his transformed life and ministry. As he once declared, "I used to think we could 'include' prayer in our ministry. Now, it is our ministry." Through Manny's journey, Jesus not only redeemed a man on the run but also empowered him to lead a movement that continues to bring hope to many.
