W. Ian Thomas

Walter Ian Thomas was born in London, England. At the age of 12, he was invited by a friend to spend a week at a Christian camp for boys that was a part of the ministry of the Crusaders Union. Upon hearing the Gospel clearly explained, Ian gladly accepted Christ as his Savior and Lord. Later, while preparing for the possibility of becoming a missionary doctor, Ian answered the call to be an evangelist and ministered Christ throughout the British Isles. Six years later, he served his country as an army officer in World War II. On his release from the military and with deep concern for the effect of the war years on the youth, in 1947, Ian established, a Christian Youth Center at Capernwray Hall. He was soon visited by British and other nationalities, including Germans, who became true Christians and called themselves “Torchbearers.” There are now 25 Torchbearers Centers and Bible Schools worldwide.