GRAND RAPIDS, MI – WCSG general manager Chris Lemke urged listeners on Monday, June 23, to pray for former host John Balyo, his family, co-workers and alleged victims after Balyo was accused of paying for sexual encounters with children.

“God’s people will not lose heart,” Lemke told listeners.

He said the criminal allegations, reported late last week, have left staff in grief. Balyo's morning co-host, Amanda, is taking this week off, but will return next week.

“And, we know you may be hurting as well,” Lemke told listeners.

“Yet, we have hope.”

He said that a listener outpouring of support, in text messages and emails to the station, have buoyed Balyo’s co-workers, who were in disbelief after hearing the allegations.

Lemke asked for prayers for all who have been hurt by the allegations, especially the victims.

“We pray for John. We pray for his bride and new stepson,” he said.

“Most importantly, please pray for the victims of the allegations.”

Balyo, 35, of Caledonia, was arrested Friday in Gaylord. He was charged with first-degree criminal sexual conduct after an investigation by Homeland Security, state police and Battle Creek police.

WCSG, operated by Cornerstone University, cut ties with Balyo over the weekend.

Balyo "allegedly paid a defendant, who is the subject of a separate HSI child-exploitation investigation, to arrange sexual encounters with minor victims,” investigators said in court records.

WCSG will continue to offer a “Christian-centered influence” both locally and nationwide via the Internet, Lemke said.

On air Monday, Lemke pleaded with God for healing for the victims.

“You are the great healer. Heal them up. We pray for them.”

Lemke said many are in shock by the allegations.

“We can’t make sense of this. … Did you ever have any doubt Satan was loose?”

John Agar covers crime for MLive/Grand Rapids Press E-mail John Agar: jagar@mlive.com and follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/ReporterJAgar