“We always knew of-God, but hadn’t experienced the Awe of God until attending services at Solid Rock Church”, Ben says. It was there they grew as disciples of Christ and it all changed when Ben changed. Ben went on a mission trip in 2014, and had a radical move of God in his life. It was then that he heard God for the first time clearly say “You need a spiritual awakening”. From that day on the Balk household changed forever. It was only 1 year later they sold 4 rental units, 2 homes (all in one weekend) all their stuff and headed for California, under Pastor’s Joe and Teena Skiles. Ben’s first role was as New Hope Academy’s Administrator. Once this was in health he became the Executive Pastor. Shauna planted a St. Raymond’s home, called “Hope House” on the same campus as the church, which still runs today supported by the church. Later she became the Connections Pastor. Their children grew up on the campus and love ministry. They were instrumental in the revitalization of New Hope, Ca. Once it was in health, becoming affectionately known as “the fastest growing church in the Bay”, God called the Balks back to central MO. The Balk’s returned to Missouri in 2022, for the expansion of St. Raymond’s 21-family maternity home which is for mothers who choose life, despite challenging circumstances.  New Hope CoMo will be a home for those mothers and children, as well as the entire Columbia community.

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