Chuck Farina

In April of 1999, Pastor Chuck Farina felt the call of God to begin a church in Abilene, Texas. In August of that year, after much prayer and many confirmations, he and his family relocated and began the work of laying the foundation of New Hope Church.

Before this move, Pastor Chuck was on staff, as Associate Pastor at Bethel Assembly of God in Duncan, Oklahoma, a growing, progressive church with a vision to reach the lost. When Pastor Chuck made his desire to plant a new church known to the staff and body of Bethel, they supported the Farinas in their call. As the vision became clearer several families from Duncan joined the Farinas in relocating for the express purpose of planting New Hope Church. These families and others the Lord brought across their paths made up the launch team.

New Hope began as a home group meeting in the home of Pastor Farina and later in the homes of others in the launch team and on January 9, 2000, New Hope Church began a regular Sunday Service with 53 people in attendance. Over the past several years, the church has faced many challenges, but God has blessed New Hope Church with continued growth.

One of the greatest challenges they initially faced was finding a location suited to their needs. New Hope Church began its first services at the West Texas Girl Scout Council building (now Abilene Bible Church) located on Loop 322 and met there for 11 months. When a change in management at the Girl Scout Council necessitated a move, the congregation took up residence in the First Financial Bank building located on Buffalo Gap Rd. by the Mall of Abilene.

In February of 2002 God presented New Hope with an interesting opportunity when one of their guest speakers told Pastor Chuck, “If you can find a building, I know someone who will buy it for you.” Ten months and a million prayers later this offer was made good as Hobby Lobby, Inc. purchased the Triangle Bowling Alley (valued at more than two million dollars) for them. What started as their greatest challenge has become their greatest miracle. On October 5, 2003, New Hope Church celebrated its first worship service in the new facility.

“God has placed a great vision for our city in our hearts! We believe a great move of God is coming to the Big Country and we are excited to be a part of His great plan,” says Pastor Chuck. “The former Triangle facility has now been transformed into an 800-seat auditorium and support facilities — AND we believe God is going to fill it up!” New Hope Church is a growing church made up of growing people. However, they are a relatively young congregation, and the Church is diverse in its make-up, both culturally and racially. It is a place where everyone can feel welcome regardless of cultural, racial, or economic background. We invite you to come and experience the miracle-working power of God in your own life today—You will never be the same.