About Torchbearers

Holsby is an interdenominational ministry engaged in evangelism and Bible teaching. We are associated with Torchbearers International (formerly known as Capernwray Missionary Fellowship of Torchbearers), and share the same mission statement:

We exist to proclaim the transforming presence of Jesus Christ through biblical teaching and practical training, equipping men and women for service in His church worldwide.

Torchbearers International was founded by Major Ian Thomas in the 1940s in northwest England, and has since expanded to include many Bible schools and conference centers around the world. These centers are intended to encourage and instruct young people in their relationship with God.

History

Major W. Ian Thomas (1914-2007) was an officer in the British Army during World War II. In 1946, Thomas and his wife purchased an old country estate in northwest England known locally as Capernwray Hall. They intended to transform it into a Christian center for young people, and in 1948 the British government arranged to have an initial group of 30 young people from postwar Germany come and participate in the summer program at Capernwray Hall.

While in England, many of these young people realized their need for salvation in Jesus Christ. Their lives were transformed and they returned to Germany and became known as the “torchbearers” of God’s light and truth. From these simple beginnings, Torchbearers International now includes 25 Bible schools and conference centers in 20 countries.