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Capernwray Bible Centre: Our Roots
Who We Are
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The first Capernwray centre was started in the Northwest of
England by Major W. Ian Thomas, a British Army officer who served
during World War II. In 1946, by faith, he and his wife purchased an
old country estate known locally as Capernwray Hall, and in 1948 the
British government arranged to have 30 German young people come to
participate in the summer program there.
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The Very First Capernwray Bible School
While there, many of these young people came to
realize their need for spiritual salvation and they accepted the
forgiveness that God gives through His Son, Jesus. Their lives were
changed so much by Him that when they returned to Germany it was as if
God had given them a bright torch to shine in the darkness. They came to
be known as Torchbearers of God's light and love, and the name has stuck
ever since.
In 1949, an inter-denominational, short term Bible school began at
Capernwray Hall to encourage and instruct young people from around the
world in their relationship to God. Since that time thousands of young
people and adults have walked through those doors and heard the good news
that God is much more interested in our relationship with Him than
our religious activity for Him. |
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On to Thetis Island
Two such students were Charlie and Marlene Fordham
who attended the Capernwray Hall Bible School in the early '70's. After
their year of study and through a unique series of events, God led them
to Thetis Island and this property was purchased from the North American
Indian Mission (see "a History of Transformation").
In 1979, Capernwray Bible Centre opened it's doors for the first
time to 77 students, and since then there have been many thousands of
students attend the school. A One Year Bible School is offered from
September-May. Between May-September, Capernwray is host to more
than 3000 guests for various kinds of retreats and conferences (ranging
from artist groups and clubs, outdoor education programmes, family
reunions, church retreats and many more).
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Capernwray Bible School and Conference Centre: The Result
It is now over 30 years that Capernwray Bible
Centre started with a "full house" of students from 10-15 countries.
Steadily, both outdoor and indoor facilities have been improved and
beautified...(as two completely different venues of "classroom" for
teaching and training mainly young people to be involved in "full
time Christian service...regardless of occupation"!). Each year believers'
lives are being transformed and many others come to believe!
The development has been by the hands of many willing individuals over the
years, the transformation utterly through the wisdom, competence and
faithfulness of our eternal and all-sufficient God!
Our purpose and that of Torchbearers International continues to be to
proclaim our risen, redeeming and indwelling Lord Jesus Christ as the only
Saviour, Lord and our very Life, eternally!
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The impressive white Tudor style building stands against the expansive sweep of
green lawns and blue ocean below. Its history is intriguing and interesting.
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Read More>
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The history of our property is maintained in the Royal British Columbia Museum archives, in images and documents outlining the early days of settlement of Thetis Island.
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View Pictures>
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Keep in touch by checking in on our Harbour Happenings Online Newsletter! All
of our current and back issues are now online. |
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United in one purpose: to share the Life and Love of our Lord Jesus
Christ with those we are privileged to serve. Check here to learn more
about us!
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Read More>
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