Publisher

In 2012, James R. Coggins launched Mill Lake Books, which operates as a writers’ cooperative to publish novels, biographies and Christian books. Mill Lake Books is a semi-independent imprint of Judson Lake House Publishers, which handles distribution for both companies. Mill Lake Books has published the following titles:

Ron Dart, David Giesbrecht, J.H. Hans Kouwenberg and J. Christoph Reiners, eds., Being the Church in Abbotsford: Reflective Essays

The Fraser Valley has often been described as “the Bible Belt” of British Columbia, and the city of Abbotsford as “the buckle of the Bible Belt.” The terms have frequently been used to present a simplistic and negative caricature of the city. The eleven essays in Being the Church in Abbotsford show a more complex, multi-layered view of Abbotsford, highlighting topics such as inter-church engagement; spiritual care in the hospital; the need for interfaith dialogue; faith and social concern; faith and the arts; faith and education; faith and business; and faith and politics. In some senses, the book can be seen as a sequel to The Church in the Heart of the Valley: 1892–1992 (edited by A.J. Klassen, 1992), but it attempts to reflect more profoundly on the reality of the city. Dr. Jonathan S. Raymond has called it “a must read for those interested in the future of our cities and towns and the collective contribution of their faith communities.”

Julia Quiring Emblen, Visiting Mrs. Morgan: A Handbook for Visiting Aging, Homebound and Hospitalized People

Mill Lake Books, Distributed by Ingram

Visiting Mrs. Morgan is an essential guide for chaplains, pastors, elders, deacons, parish nurses, church members, family members – and anyone else who might have occasion to visit someone who is aging, homebound or in a hospital. The nine chapters creatively address common circumstances visitors are likely to encounter and offer practical suggestions for how visitors might interact with seniors in a way that sensitively expresses care and love. The book can be read by any individual but can also be used as a handbook for a 10-week group discussion. Author Julia Quiring Emblen has had an extensive career in nursing and helped establish BSN programs at Bethel College in Newton, Kansas, and Trinity Western University in Langley, British Columbia. Currently, she oversees a visitation program in her home church.

Vern Heidebrecht, The Best Is Yet To Be

Mill Lake Books

Vern Heidebrecht is a highly successful Christian minister whose pastorates have been marked by long terms and remarkable church growth. His career culminated in him coming to his home town of Abbotsford, B.C., where he helped Northview Community Church grow into one of the largest churches in Canada. What is surprising about this autobiography is that it is not a listing of his achievements but a frank description of his struggles, as well as what God taught him along the way. Brian Stiller, Global Ambassador, World Evangelical Alliance says, “Vern Heidebrecht’s autobiography is a marvelous presentation of the Christian theology which shaped and transformed his life.” Other readers have described the “warm, evocative story-telling” of someone through whose life “we are and being pointed heavenward.”

David Collins, Out of the Box: Moving from Religion to Intimacy with God

Paradigm Ministries

Out of the Box is based on a simple assumption: The knowledge of God is vast and largely undiscovered. There are immense oceans of truth still waiting to be found. Mark Buchanan, author of Your Church Is Too Safe, says, “David can console and startle in equal measure, sometimes in the same sentence. If you’re looking for a collection of bland platitudes, choose another book. If you could use a jar of spiritual hot chili peppers, you’re holding it.” Darrow Miller, co-founder of the Disciple Nations Alliance, adds, “David’s new book will challenge you to reflect more deeply and think more widely. It is a wonderful encouragement for each of us to face our hard days with a fresh spirit.”

Harry Schmidt, The Incredible Dream

As a boy, Harry Schmidt could not have been expected to accomplish much. Born to an impoverished immigrant farm family, he had no money, little education and a serious speech impediment. All he could do is dream. But he took the first job he could get, one thing led to another, and his dreams became reality. He became a successful building contractor in Canada and now travels the world using his acquired wealth to build children’s shelters. More than a biography, this book asks probing questions: Why do the poor have to remain poor? Why do some people succeed while others fail?

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