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partially sighted people worldwide.
News Archive
The items below were previously displayed on the News and What's On Page
NEW AWARD FOR ACCESSIBLE PUBLISHING
Posted: 25th May 2010 by Lin Ball
Championing the publishing of books in accessible formats is one of the key aims of Torch Trust. Our own lending library contains over three and a half thousand Christian titles in braille, giant print and audio formats – but we know that so much more could be done. With 1.8 million people in Britain living with sight loss, many people are denied access to much of the wealth of Christian publishing. With that in mind, we presented the first ever Christian Resources Award for the Best Accessible Product 2010 at the annual Christian Resources Exhibition held this month in Esher, Surrey. Fifteen awards were presented across the range of print publishing, audio and video for adults and children – but this was the first time that an award was given for an accessible format title. We made the award to Cambridge University Press for their large print King James Version Bible, a hardback in good, clear large type which is still comfortable to hold. We wanted to celebrate the efforts made by Cambridge to include people with sight loss. We hope that making this award an annual event will encourage publishers to think more about accessible versions of their products for this often overlooked audience.
PHOTO: The award presented by Gordon Temple is received by a member of the Lion Hudson team on behalf of Cambridge University Press at the Christian Resources Awards. Photo taken by Dave Lock of Manna Christian Centre, Streatham.
DISABILITY SUNDAY - FREE RESOURCES FOR YOU AND YOUR CHURCH
Posted: 29th April 2010 by Lin Ball
Did you know that this year Disability Sunday has been moved from October to June 6?
Of course, you can choose to mark this day at any point in your church calendar that makes sense for you. But, whatever day you decide on, Torch Trust has produced a pack of materials to help you plan for it. We want to support you as you put on a creative and inclusive service that draws attention to the needs of people with disability and the mutual benefits of involving them more in church life.
In the pack you’ll find worship and sermon ideas as well as an outline for a children’s talk. There’s even a poster and advice on local publicity, including a draft press release for your local newspaper. You can also request a five-minute DVD of interviews with people with sight loss which powerfully demonstrates the difficulties they face in the church context. This DVD is included with our Foursight for the Church pack to anyone who registers for it. For a preview of this DVD, go to YouTube and search with ‘Torch Trust blind people in church’.
All these materials are available on the special Torch website (www.torchfoursight.org). You will need to register to be sent the free pack. If you have already registered, simply use the email address you registered with as your password.
Torch in the Zone at biggest ever CRE
Posted: 21st March 2010 by Gordon Temple
Once again, Torch will be exhibiting at the massive Christian Resources exhibition at Sandown Park Racecourse, Esher, Surrey from Tuesday 11th to Friday 14th May. We have a number of complimentary tickets available – just let us know at Torch House (contact us) and we’ll put one (or more) in the post to you. The only ‘catch’ is that we’d love you to come and see us on the Torch Stand in the Surrey Hall. This year is the biggest yet in the 25 year+ history of CRE – over 400 exhibitors plus more than 100 practical workshops. When you receive the ticket you can then ‘register’ online if you wish to fast track your entry to the event when you arrive. Last year Torch celebrated its 50th anniversary. This year we are part of a new feature at CRE – the ‘Churches for All’ zone. Churches for All is a partnership of UK Christian disability organisations and the zone will include interactive activities, seminars and workshops, as well as the stands of the partner organisations. If you have not been to CRE before, the venue is within the M25 and you can park for free at the racecourse (postcode KT10 9AJ). Alternatively trains to Esher station run from London Waterloo and Clapham Junction approximately every 20 minutes and the journey time is 25 minutes. Esher station is approximately 10 minutes flat walk from the main entrance (or there is usually a free CRE courtesy bus). Full details at www.creonline.co.uk
2010 - Torch Year of Promise
Posted: 5th January 2010 by Dr Gordon Temple
2010 – Torch’s year of promise!
A New Year message from CEO Dr Gordon Temple
During 2009 Torch Trust celebrated its fiftieth anniversary. Our vision, our passion has been and remains that every blind or partially sighted person may:
- explore and discover the Christian faith
- grow as a Christian
- have a fulfilling devotional life
- join a church of their choice
- develop their invaluable God-given gifting
- contribute to the life of the church
- In the UK, 100 people learn every day that they are losing their sight and 1.8 million people live with sight loss beyond correction with spectacles – a statistic that will double by 2050.
- Worldwide, 160 million people are blind or partially sighted. They are counted among the poorest people on the planet, and arguably with the least access to the Christian message.
Never have we known such an appetite for what Torch does among blind and partially sighted people and among the organisations that serve and support them – with growing interest in our Fellowship Groups, our specialist holidays and, of course, our Christian literature in a range of formats. We are welcomed at exhibitions, events and conferences run by ‘blindness’ organisations of all kinds. We are encouraged by the UK Vision Strategy published by Vision 2020 and the RNIB in 2009, particularly in that it identifies the emotional support needs of people experiencing sight loss – an issue which Torch has long recognised and to which we respond through several aspects of our work.
2010 to be Torch’s Year of Promise!
We enter the New Year with a sense of expectation – despite the financial challenges of the present time, to which Torch is not immune. Looking back over the past 50 years we have seen God’s faithfulness and we are encouraged in our faith as we grasp the opportunities before us. The seeds of good things are evident in every area of our work:
· Our Foursight for the Church initiative has attracted registrations from almost 600 churches.
· Increasingly we are finding ourselves in mutually constructive relationships with other organisations working in areas of access for those with sight loss, and that includes a new initiative to make worship resources more accessible.
· We are working towards the launch of a new MP3 disk service for audio readers.
· Following the outstanding success of the DAISY format audio Bible, a King James DAISY version will be ready next year in time for the 400th anniversary of the translation’s first publication.
· There is interest from many areas in starting up new Torch Fellowship Groups.
· Growing numbers of people with sight loss are coming on Torch Holidays.
· Our international work is experiencing fresh growth, with an increasing network of mutually supportive partnerships and the prospect of a facilitating role in a massive project providing braille Scriptures in many more languages starting in 2010.
In Luke 14 we read Jesus’ story of a great celebration. Invitations went out to those who expected to be invited but their response was indifference. With the banquet ready but an absence of guests, the host sends his servants out onto the streets to those who would never expect a party invitation – blind people among them – to invite them personally. Torch has a global vision for its work – but it’s realised in a myriad of personal encounters. So much now depends on each of us – the Master’s servants – to bring the personal touch. A Happy New Year to all our friends and supporters! Please pray with us that 2010 will be for Torch a Year of Promise fulfilled!
God bless you, Gordon
CHRISTIAN PERSONALITIES CONTRIBUTE TO CHARITY
Posted: 16th December 2009 by Torch Trust
A dozen leading Christians have contributed comments on their favourite Bible verses to a devotional book of 50 Bible readings just published to mark the 50th anniversary of Torch Trust.
Richard Atkinson, Marilyn Baker, Richard Bewes, Steve Brady, David Coffey, Mike Endicott, Michele Guinness, Peter Jackson, Jonathan Lamb, Jennifer Rees Larcombe, Jeff Lucas, Roy Searle and Derek Tidball are among those who have written for 50 STEPS FORWARD. Alongside them are writers drawn from Torch staff and volunteers, from those who use Torch services and from those who enable Torch work to happen around the world. Almost half the contributors are blind or partially sighted.
‘Since prayer and God’s Word are foundational to the work of Torch Trust, this book of short Bible readings, comments, praise and prayers is a really appropriate way to mark our golden jubilee year,’ said Torch CEO Gordon Temple.
‘As well as marking the historical milestone, the book is an invitation to everyone to join us on a 50-day journey of prayer which we believe will be a personal blessing to readers as well as to Torch Trust,’ he added.
50 STEPS FORWARD, a 128-page paperback, was published simultaneously in print, giant print, braille and audio formats. It’s available from Torch Trust at £5 a copy (plus postage where applicable) by calling 01858 438260 or emailing info@torchtrust.org
'Fantastic and memorable weekend!'
Posted: 30th November 2009 by Lin Ball
Well over 400 people attended the thanksgiving service at the Harborough Leisure Centre on Saturday 28 November. Representatives came from local churches; groups of blind people came from all over the UK and from several European countries. The music for the afternoon was led by Torch chair of trustees Marilyn Baker and the Torch Singers. Presentations were made by the four leaders of the different aspects of Torch work – Janet Stafford for the international ministry, David Palmer for the regional fellowship groups; Gail Millar for the holidays for blind people; and Lydia Tebbutt for the literature work, the transcribing of Bibles and Christian literatures into braille, giant print and audio formats. Gordon Temple presented Torch ambitions for the future – that no blind or partially sighted person should be denied the opportunity to hear and respond to the Gospel message, to grow in their faith, or to become a fully valued member of a local church community. Tributes were also paid to the co-founder of Torch, Stella Heath, who died recently.
Before and after the service, Torch House was open and hundreds of people visited to see the displays and buy materials for those with sight loss. About 90 people stayed at nearby Hothorpe Hall for a full weekend programme of anniversary events.
‘There was a great sense of reunion throughout the whole weekend,’ said Gordon Temple. ‘People who had been associated with Torch throughout its half century came together to reinvigorate old friendships and make new ones.’
COME AND CELEBRATE WITH US!
Posted: 26th November 2009 by Lin Ball
Torch is celebrating 50 years since its foundation as a charitable trust. We will be thanking God for our history and praying for his blessing and direction for the future in a wonderful weekend programme of events.Central to the weekend is a SERVICE OF THANKSGIVING and THIS IS YOUR INVITATION TO JOIN US!When: Saturday November 28 from 2.30pm.Where: Harborough Leisure Centre, Northampton Road, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 9HF.What: A lively 90-minute programme of celebration in song, prayer, special guests and memories, concluding with the cutting of an anniversary cake and sharing in refreshments. Additionally, Torch House, adjacent to the leisure centre, will be open from 12 noon to 2.30pm and from 4pm to 6pm with special displays, sales and refreshments.WE’D BE DELIGHTED TO SEE YOU!THANKSGIVING WEEKEND - 27-29 November 2009
Posted: 17th November 2009 by Gordon Temple
Our year of golden jubilee will come to a fitting climax in a thanksgiving weekend at Hothorpe Hall, a Christian conference centre not many miles from Torch House in Leicestershire.
Gordon Temple, Torch CEO, looks back on the 50 years of Torch Trust and on this year of celebration:
Looking back, looking forward
Fifty years ago, on 8 June 1959, Ron and Stella Heath formally took on the trust formed by the elderly Trench sisters and The Torch magazine which the sisters had started in 1931. The Torch Trust was born. Today Torch Trust, still proifty years ago, on 8 June 1959, Ron and Stella Heath formally took on the trust formed by the elderly Trench sisters and The Toviding Christian literature and fellowship for blind and partially sighted people, has around 40 staff supported by more than a thousand volunteers. Seven magazine titles serve a readership of over 14,000 spread through almost 100 countries. Up to 200 Christian book titles a year are transcribed into braille, giant print and audio to make them accessible to those with sight loss. Almost 1,900 borrowers use the Torch Library, one of the largest Christian lending libraries for blind people in the world, with about a hundred books a day being exchanged. Torch runs over 20 specialist holidays and houseparties for blind people every year. It supports over 120 Torch Fellowship Groups around the UK.
Torch is also very active internationally, fostering partnerships to reach out to blind and partially sighted people around the globe. There are around 80 fellowship groups to support people with sight loss in Malawi and others in surrounding countries, and Torch’s braille production centre in Malawi has been turning out African language scripture portions for nearly 10 years. It’s particularly good to extend a warm welcome to some of our overseas friends who are with us this weekend.So there is much to thank God for. Indeed, we have spent this whole year celebrating what, through his grace, has been achieved. To mark the golden jubilee of Torch we have organised or been present at a significant number of special events this year:
· We celebrated the bicentenary of the birth of the extraordinary Louis Braille with a unique and moving non-denominational service of thanksgiving at St Martin-in-the-Fields in Trafalgar Square, London.
· We have raised awareness of the world of blind and partially sighted people with some highly original interactive displays and seminars for thousands of Christians who attended Spring Harvest at Skegness and Minehead at Eastertime, the Christian Resources Exhibition in May and at other events through the year.
· We launched the new DAISY complete Bible – the most accessible audio Bible ever for blind and partially sighted people.
· We held a Day of Prayer at Torch House and at Torch Holiday & Retreat Centre on 8 June, the actual anniversary date of the birth of the Torch Trust and planted trees at both centres to mark the occasion.
The joy that we experience in looking back gives us great confidence in looking forward. We know that the same God who has provided for Torch in dedicated staff and volunteers and in funding for our work will continue to bless and equip for all he plans for us to do.
Though much has been achieved there is much more to be done. Though we serve thousands of people with sight loss there are many thousands more who know nothing of what is available to them through Torch – people who need the touch of Jesus on their lives. And too often Christians who lose their sight go for years before they discover Torch and the resources that can support a fulfilling Christian life of worship and service. There are too many places without a Torch Fellowship Group, too many books never published in accessible formats, too many living lonely lives who could be blessed by a Torch Holiday, and too many places across the world where blind and partially sighted people are without Scriptures and trapped in poverty.
Pray for us as we seek God’s direction and the resources to respond ever more effectively to the needs before us.
STELLA HEATH -
Posted: 30th September 2009 by Lin Ball
The loss has been announced of ‘a very down-to-earth visionary’ who left behind a lasting legacy which has touched the lives of thousands of people with sight loss in the UK and around the world.
Stella Heath died on September 29, aged 89, in the fiftieth anniversary year of the Christian charity of which she was a key founder – Torch Trust for the Blind.
Stella, together with her husband Ron who died 10 years ago, opened their Surrey home in the 1950s to young blind people from a nearby training centre. When one young woman responded to their Friday night gospel epilogues by deciding to follow Christ, Stella and Ron became concerned by the lack of Christian reading material for those with sight loss. They learned braille and recruited volunteers to make braille and giant print books, and later audio recordings. In the words of Dr Gordon Temple, current CEO of Torch Trust, ‘their God-given vocation began to crystallise.’ Their call came from the challenge of Jesus to the disciples before the feeding of the five thousand: ‘You give them something to eat.’
‘Some fifty years later, not five thousand but tens of thousands of blind people have been impacted for good,’ said Gordon Temple.
‘Over that time, I have never known Stella’s passion dulled or commitment waver, even in the aftermath of a stroke in 2006.’
Stella was a homemaker. The work with blind people took over her home and when it was outgrown she searched not for an office but for a larger home, and then one larger still. The family ethos of Torch has remained and is still nurtured.
Gordon Temple describes the Torch work from the time he first encountered it as ‘living witness to vibrant and authentic Christianity.’
‘Here was faith at work. It was a daily adventure in trusting God, praying and expecting answers - at the same time demanding and joyful.
‘Into the Heaths’ homes came many fragile and broken lives, young and old, often lonely, with the self-esteem crushed out of them, many of them blind and partially sighted. Each was made to feel significant. Stella was always able to capture the imagination of others and engage them in the work she found so compelling and indescribably worthwhile. Her homely straightforwardness belied her underlying strength as a great leader. And she opened the door to salvation in Christ for many, many people.
‘Stella’s focus was always on the individual. A blind person in need – whether those needs were practical or spiritual – was always her chief concern. Torch was built on a myriad of personal encounters.
‘Stella was a very down-to-earth visionary. She and Ron, with whom she had an extraordinary partnership, never worked at long term plans – not even an annual budget for Torch. They tackled each day as it came, eagerly seeking the clues to God’s leading for them and the work.’
From such humble origins, Torch today operates a large Christian lending library for those with sight loss from its Market Harborough headquarters, transcribing up to 200 Christian titles a year into accessible media. It sends out magazines to blind people in 100 countries, supports 120 fellowship groups and runs over 20 specialist holidays and houseparties a year. Forty years ago, Stella Heath launched the Torch work in Africa, where now there’s a production centre in Malawi transcribing braille and giant print scriptures and eighty fellowship groups giving a variety of support to blind people in several African countries. This international ministry remained close to Stella’s heart throughout her life.
A service of thanksgiving for Stella Heath’s life was held on October 16 at St Mary’s Church, Pulborough in West Sussex.
Just published is 50 STEPS FORWARD, a 128-page book of Bible readings, comments and prayers from 50 contributors – including Stella Heath and a number of well-known Christian names – produced to celebrate Torch’s fiftieth anniversary. It’s available from Torch Trust at £5 plus postage. www.torchtrust.org
This picture of Stella 'Mum' Heath was taken in August 2009.
Torch on national DAB radio
Posted: 22nd September 2009 by Gordon Temple
Premier Christian Radio has launched its national DAB radio service and so Torch's Insight programme goes national. Tune in at 4pm each Sunday afternoon to hear a welcome from Marilyn Baker and to listen to interviews, testimonies and more - all with a disability dimension.
Premier Christian Radio is also available on the internet via the Links page
Torch Foursight Video
Posted: 10th September 2009 by Gordon Temple
Torch has produced a video for use in churches to bring home the challenges that blind and partially sighted people often experience in church life - and to introduce Torch's Foursight for the Church initiative that offers churches helpful guidance and resources. Why not request a copy of the DVD to show to your church or group - and register at www.torch-foursight.org to get a copy of the Foursight church pack. The video can be previewed on YouTube.
The same book, at the same time, at the same price
Posted: 6th July 2009 by Lin Ball
Why shouldn't people with sight loss be able to borrow or buy books as easily, as cheaply and with as much choice as everyone else?
Torch Trust is passionate about giving blind and partially sighted people access to the Christian literature they need to find faith, grow in their Christian lives, develop their gifts and participate fully in church life.
To find out about Torch's membership of The Right to Read Alliance which campaigns for these rights, go to the Right to Read in the Literature area of the website.
A Beautiful Mind
Posted: 6th June 2009 by Gordon Temple
Christian charity Mind & Soul is running a conference with the title A Beautiful Mind: Emotional Health and Christian Theology on 26th March 2010 at Holy Trinity Brompton. This conference offers to help you understand where emotional stress comes from, see how it relates to a person's faith and learn how to offer practical help. Download the brochure (PDF 1.5Mbyte)Torch celebrates 50 years
Posted: 1st June 2009 by Lin Ball
Torch Trust, a Christian organisation serving blind and partially sighted people, celebrates its fiftieth anniversary this month (June 2009).
The story began when Stella and Ron Heath opened their home to blind young men and women from a training school in Surrey. They were confronted with how difficult it was for blind people to be included in church life and to have access to the Bible and other Christian books. The Heaths learned braille and recruited volunteers to help them in the work of transcribing, later moving into making audio recordings. On June 8, 1959, they formally took over a magazine for blind people called The Torch and the formative trust behind it.
Under their pioneering and inspirational leadership, the work grew amazingly. Twenty years ago they expanded the work into Africa, setting up a braille production centre for African scriptures in Malawi. Today Torch Trust provides Christian literature for thousands of blind people and reaches into 100 countries. It also runs the largest Christian lending library in the UK for those with sight loss, with over 3,500 titles in a mix of braille, giant print and audio formats. Torch also supports over 120 fellowship groups for blind and partially sighted people around the UK, and puts on a programme of specialised holidays every year from its own holiday and retreat centre in Sussex.
A series of celebratory events throughout the year marks the 50th anniversary. These began in March with a thanksgiving service for the bicentenary of the birth of Louis Braille at St Martin-in-the-Fields Church in London and continued at Eastertime with interactive display stands and workshops at Spring Harvest.
On the actual anniversary date of June 8, Torch staff, volunteers and supporters will gather for a Day of Prayer at Torch House in Market Harborough, Leicestershire.
Torch’s Chief Executive Dr Gordon Temple said, ‘The day will be one of thanksgiving to God for 50 years of growth and blessing – but it’s also about the future. There’s much to be done to fulfil Torch’s aims to reach more people with sight loss. In this country alone, 100 people every day learn that they are losing their sight.’
The organisation will continue its raised profile with presence at more Christian and secular conferences and events over the summer. And in November there will be an Anniversary Weekend.
Marilyn Baker, well known as a singer and songwriter and now Chair of Torch Trust said, ‘Torch has been so important to my own Christian journey. It’s not just the access to books and magazines in braille or audio formats, it’s about being accepted as a person and as a Christian. The love and pastoral help given to me by the Heaths, the Torch founders, gave me the confidence to embark on my own ministry. I want to see everyone with sight loss not only accepted within the Church but becoming truly part of it and enabled to lead a fulfilling Christian life.’
NEW - The most accessible Audio Bible ever for Blind People
Posted: 1st June 2009 by Lin Ball
From this month (June 2009) the complete Bible is available for blind people on DAISY CD – the most advanced and flexible audio format there is.
The new product revolutionises Bible reading and study for people with sight loss – making it possible for any single verse in the Bible to be accessed within seconds.
This mammoth project has been a truly collaborative effort. Torch Trust, a Christian charity serving blind and partially sighted people, has worked with the encouragement of publishers Hodder & Stoughton, together with assistance from Wycliffe Associates volunteers and production support from RNIB (Royal National Institute of Blind People).
The new Today’s New International Version of the Bible is contained on just four DAISY CDs in a single DVD case, totalling 75 hours of audio reading. DAISY – or Digital Accessible Information System – allows a very flexible approach to searching the text. On a standard cassette or CD, it’s just not possible to hunt down and isolate a particular Bible verse – but it’s very simple using the DAISY player.
Torch Trust’s Chief Executive Dr Gordon Temple said, ‘DAISY is the perfect medium for the Bible. The Bible is not the sort of book that is read from cover to cover. Occasionally we might read a whole book of the Bible, but usually we dip into it. We look up a verse or passage and read that, then another. But that can’t be done with the usual audio Bibles that can be purchased in bookshops.
‘That’s what makes the DAISY Bible so extraordinary. Now someone whose sight loss has denied them access to print but who cannot read braille can really read the Bible as a sighted person does – going directly to a passage or verse and finding a reference as quickly as a sighted person using a print Bible.’
As well as its easy search facility, the DAISY system allows the reader to add bookmarks and also retains a memory of the place last read even after the disc is removed. Another intriguing facility is that the recording can be speeded up or slowed down – without altering the pitch of the voice.
Exclusively for the use of blind and partially sighted people, the DAISY edition of the entire Bible is available from Torch Trust or RNIB at £15.99.
As well as the Bible, Torch Trust has transcribed over 250 Christian books from their lending library – the largest Christian library for blind people in the UK – into DAISY format, and about a dozen new titles are added to that every month.
Comment from a DAISY user:
Colin: ‘DAISY has revolutionised my reading of the Bible. If you break off reading, DAISY remembers where you left off – even if, in the meantime, you play other discs on your DAISY player. For me, the main advantage with DAISY over other audio is ease of navigation. Also it’s possible to set bookmarks, which is most helpful when studying or selecting a favourite Bible passage. And the sound quality is much clearer.’About Torch Trust
Based in Market Harborough in Leicestershire, Torch Trust is a non-denominational Christian organisation supported by donations. The charity’s aim is to overcome sight loss as a barrier to finding a personal faith in Christ and living a fulfilled Christian life. Torch Trust produces Christian literature in braille, giant print and audio formats; and promotes Christian fellowship among blind and partially sighted people across the UK and around the world. (www.torchtrust.org or email info@torchtrust.org)
About RNIB
RNIB is the leading charity working in the UK offering practical support, advice and information for anyone with sight difficulties. If you, or someone you know, have a sight problem, RNIB can help. Call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 (or visit www.rnib.org.uk).
Torch's high profile presence at Christian events marks fiftieth anniversary
Posted: 20th May 2009 by Lin Ball
The Torch Trust stand, with its eye-catching ‘pods’ – freestanding booths offering a range of interactive experiences conveying the challenges of sight loss – proved a great attraction at Spring Harvest over Easter and at the Christian Resources Exhibition in May.
‘Being at Spring Harvest for our fiftieth anniversary year was a fantastic opportunity to promote Torch, meet supporters and make new friends,’ says Torch Chief Executive Dr Gordon Temple.
‘Up to 20,000 heard the Torch presentation in the Big Top meetings – not to mention hundreds more who viewed it on their chalet TVs. Many came to the stand to talk and look at our resources and over 600 attended our Come to your senses! workshops.’
At CRE in Esher, Surrey, the Torch stand also attracted a lot of interest, with many signing up for the Foursight for the Church pack which promotes ways in which the local church can become more accessible to blind and partially sighted people.
New audio Bible
Meanwhile, upstairs at the parallel CBC event (Christian Booksellers’ Convention), Torch was offering several new products, including the most accessible audio Bible ever for blind people. Although the DAISY (Digital Accessible Information System) New Testament has been available since 2006, this was an opportunity to launch the new complete Bible.
The project – work done in partnership with RNIB (principal supplier of DAISY players), publisher Hodder & Stoughton and Wycliffe Associates - revolutionises Bible reading and study for people with sight loss. On a standard cassette or CD, it’s just not possible to hunt down and isolate a particular Bible verse – but the simple operation of four large buttons on the DAISY machine makes that level of selection a reality. The four DAISY CDs for the whole Bible run to 75 hours.
Exclusively for the use of blind and partially sighted people, the DAISY Bible is available from Torch Trust at £15.99. Also available is the Old Testament at £12.99 or the re-mastered New Testament at £4.99.
Day of Prayer
The actual 50th anniversary date of Monday June 8 will be marked by a Day of Prayer at Torch House in Market Harborough, with others joining in from their homes, individually and in groups, around the country. If you want to join in, please request Gordon Temple’s prayer letter which includes a programme for the day.
OPENING EYES TO THE WORLD OF BLIND PEOPLE
Posted: 23rd March 2009 by Lin Ball
Under the banner ‘Come to your senses’, the Torch Trust will be unveiling an innovative interactive experience at Spring Harvest this Easter to celebrate 50 years of Christian ministry with blind people.
‘Our exhibition is a really hands-on and novel way of giving people insights into engaging Spring Harvesters with the challenging experiences of blind people – both in their practical, everyday life and in their spiritual lives,’ says Torch Trust chief executive Dr Gordon Temple.
The exhibition, together with seminars, will encourage people to think in fresh ways about how they label people.
‘Blind people often feel defined by their sensory loss,’ says Abi Watkin.
Abi (30), with a background in creative writing and education, has been working as a consultant to Torch Trust in preparing the exhibition and seminars.
‘An example of the challenges facing blind people is the issue of socialisation. Because they can’t see facial expression, don’t know when new people have come into a room or where they are standing, blind people will often exclude themselves from social situations for fear of getting things wrong,’ says Abi.
‘Such withdrawal means that the church, for example, is leaving the many amazing gifts of blind people untapped.
‘We want people to go away from the Torch Trust stand with a fresh approach to how they assess people – making sure they are defined by who they are rather than what they can or can’t do,’ says Abi.
‘And the multi-sensory worship seminar on the theme of Creation, will give them an exciting new experience of worship using all the senses.’
Torch Trust will also be giving a short Big Top presentation at Spring Harvest and launching several new titles in braille and giant print which will be available on the Wesley Owen bookstall.
Louis Braille Bicentenary
Posted: 27th February 2009 by James Brookman
To celebrate the 200th anniversary of Louis Braille's birth a special church service is being held in St Martin in the Fields, London at 12 noon 21st March 2009 - please let us know if you would like to attend.
Details of the event are on this link: Acrobat pdf
The order of service for the event is available here as a Word or Acrobat pdf file.
Radio Northampton Interview
Posted: 2nd February 2009 by James Brookman
On Sunday 1st February Martin Heath from Radio Northampton broadcast a series of interviews he made recently on a visit to Torch House.
Stars for a Day!
Posted: 27th January 2009 by Lin Ball
Members of Market Harborough Baptist Church in Leicestershire became extras when a film crew came to town on Sunday (January 25).
The church offered to be the venue for the filming of a short video which will be shown at Spring Harvest to launch the 50th anniversary of Torch Trust – the Christian ministry to blind and partially sighted which has its HQ in Market Harborough. 
The film crew sat in on the usual morning communion service led by Market Harborough’s pastor Nick Cook. Then the lights and cameras were set up and the congregation were invited to stay behind to re-create some key moments from the service, including some sermon snippets and singing.
Torch Trust CEO Gordon Temple explained that the purpose of the video was to show how difficult churchgoing can be for blind and partially sighted people.
‘Market Harborough Baptist Church is something of an exception,’ he said.
‘They have a number of people with sight loss in the congregation and have thought carefully about how to be inclusive and make life easier for them. One of the church elders is blind, as are several people in the worship group. The fellowship understands how to make them welcome and provides large print bulletins and so on.
‘But many churches have never really considered the needs of blind and partially sighted people. Our campaign for churches, called Foursight, is aimed at educating and equipping churches to be accessible places for those with sight loss. And since 2009 is our fiftieth anniversary we are holding several celebratory events – not least of which is the video which we will be showing in the Big Top at Spring Harvest. Our stand and seminar programme at Spring Harvest will be very unusual – a sensory adventure that will give sighted people real understanding of the difficulties faced by blind people.’
Christmas Houseparty a great success
Posted: 12th January 2009 by Gordon Temple
Over 70 people went on the Christmas Houseparty held for the first time at High Leigh, including 40 blind and partially sighted people, most of whom would otherwise have spent Christmas alone.
Running from 23rd to 27th December, the Christmas houseparty included a last minute shopping trip to nearby Hoddesdon on Christmas Eve, a turkey banquet on Christmas Day, and Boxing Day outing and evening dinner. Mike Townsend and Peter Jackson led times of fellowship and worship and everyone enjoyed the concert evening.
At first a few felt it was all too big and busy but by the time we had to leave they were asking "Can we come back here next year?" Well, it's in the Torch 2009 Holiday Brochure! Email Torch Holidays for information or call 01273 832282.
Open Days for Professionals working with blind and partially sighted people
Posted: 12th January 2009 by Gordon Temple
These open days are a great opportunity for professionals to learn more about services offered to blind and partially sighted people by Torch Trust. There will be a chance to look around, meet the staff and find out what we do. A buffet lunch will be provided at both venues.
For more information and to book a place please email Pat Lower or call 01858 438260.
Annual Thanksgiving Celebration - 25th October 2008
Posted: 26th September 2008 by Gordon Temple
Come to our new look Thanksgiving Celebration in Worcester - easily reached from the M5. There’s a lot going on, something to really engage anyone involved with the various aspects of Torch’s work.
After coffee at 11am there’s an informal time of singing, news and chat hosted by blind pianist Peter Jackson. Running in parallel are three workshop sessions: one for Torch Fellowship Group leaders with David Palmer, one for anyone interested in finding out what's involved in producing our audio literature with Lydia Tebbutt, and one for those who get involved with our international outreach led by Janet Stafford.
A light lunch will be provided at 12:30pm.
At 2pm we shall all get together to give thanks to God for His goodness to us over this, our 49th year. This time will include testimonies, music from the Torch singers, and a look ahead into 2009. We finish with tea and cakes at 3:30pm.
Directions to St Peter's Baptist Church, Worcester, WR5 3TZ: exit M5 at Junction 7 towards Worcester. Left at first roundabout onto A4440 named Crookbarrow Way. At next roundabout turn right into St Peter’s Drive. Follow the road round until you see St Peter’s church on your left. [If you find problems locating the address with a Sat Nav, try WR5 3TA or WR5 3TY.]
If you plan to bring a group please let us know for catering purposes. Phone 01858 438260 or email Beth Goddard
Foursight for the Church
Posted: 20th April 2008 by Gordon Temple
At Spring Harvest in Skegness, Torch launched its Foursight for the Church initiative. It's a four step programme that's intended to raise awareness of people with sight loss in church and to help churches to fully include them. To find our more visit the new website: www.torch-foursight.org.
Visitors to our striking new exhibtion stand at Skegness were able to register for the Church Pack there and then. 116 people representing 104 churches did. How about you and your church?
New Churches for All Website
Posted: 1st April 2008 by Gordon Temple
Churches for All or CfA is a partnership of Christian disability organisations. Torch Trust is an active partner.
CfA has launched a new website. It's a unique resource for churches seeking to be more inclusive of disabled people, including blind and partially sighted people. Instead of starting with the disablity, this website starts with the type of activity to be undertaken by the church or leader and then raises the issues that arise for disabled people.
Visit the new website: www.churchesforall.org
Assistant Chief Executive appointed
Posted: 30th March 2008 by Gordon Temple
Andew Nicholson has joined Torch Trust as Assistant Chief Executive, working with Torch's Chief Executive Gordon Temple. Andrew brings strong financial and administrative leadership skills. Andrew previously worked with FIEC where he organised the Cheltenham Bible Festival in 2007.
Andrew is married to Meryl and they have two children. They live in Market Harborough and are involved in the life of Market Harborough Baptist Church.
New Chair for Torch
Posted: 30th March 2008 by Gordon Temple
Torch welcomes a new chair for its trustee board. Marilyn Baker took on this responsibility at the beginning of the year, following on from Rev. Ron Wells who has been chair for 10 years. Marilyn is supported in her role by the appointment of a vice chair, Dr Clive Dilloway.
Marilyn, who has been blind from birth, is well known as a singer and songwriter. She formed Marilyn Baker Ministries 25 years ago and now has a diverse ministry that includes running rest and renewal breaks that are a blessing to many, including quite a few blind people. Marilyn says, “It is a privilege to serve the Lord in this way. I was helped so much by Torch in earlier years”. Looking ahead Marilyn enthuses, “It’s an exciting period, with next year being Torch’s 50th. We plan to use this opportunity to raise awareness, not just of the work of Torch, but also of the needs of blind and partially sighted people who sometimes feel a bit left out at church.” Marilyn presents Torch’s weekly radio programme on Premier Radio at 9pm each Saturday.
Clive enjoyed a long and successful career with BP, from which he is now retired. For a number of years he served as a trustee and then chair of the Bible Society and now chairs the Chichester Diocesan Board of Finance. His wife, Kate, is one of Torch’s most prolific volunteer braille transcribers.
Reading Through Audio
Posted: 4th January 2008 by James Bookman
Reading Through Audio is an initiative set up by Torch and other groups who provide audio for people with print disabilities to raise awareness about what's available in audio and how modern technology is providing alternatives to the cassette tape.
The initiative is aimed primarily at Rehabilitation Workers but will be of interest to anyone who likes to access audio material.
For more information visit the Reading Through Audio website.
Thanksgiving Celebration Saturday 27 October 2007
Posted: 15th October 2007 by James Brookman
Torch's annual Thanksgiving will be held in Tonbridge Baptist Church, Kent at 2.30pm. A highlight will be a visit from the Watoto Children's choir from Uganda. All are welcome to join us for an afternoon of praise and thanksgiving.
The church's address is Darenth Avenue, Tonbridge, TN10 3HZ
Premier Radio publises the INSIGHT show
Posted: 6th October 2007 by Gordon Temple
Read Premier Radio's press release
Listen to INSIGHT with Marilyn Baker at 4pm each Sunday afternoon: in the Greater London area on 1305, 1332, 1413 MW, or DAB and elsewhere in the UK on Sky Digital 0123, Virgin Media 698, Freeview 725. Or go to www.premier.org.uk and click "Listen Now".
Disability Sunday 7 October 2007
Posted: 20th August 2007 by James Brookman
Here's an opportunity to encourage your church to think about the needs of blind, partially sighted and other disabled people.
find out more about Disability Sunday
Cheltenham Bible Festival 9-11 August 2007
Posted: 4th August 2007 by James Brookman
The Federation of International Evangelical Churches (FIEC) is holding their annual Bible festival at Cheltenham Race Course.
Come and visit Torch at their stand in the Global Village marquee and, if you're there on the Saturday, come and join the special Torch Fellowship Group Meeting starting at 4pm - in the Tote Sport room!
Open Day has changed to Open Nights!
Posted: 12th June 2007 by James Brookman
To try and attract different people we have decided to try something new this year. Instead of having the Open Day, scheduled for Saturday 16th June, we are planning two summer-time evening "Open House" events at Torch.
Join us for a bar-be-que and fellowship on the evenings of either Wednesday 25th July or Friday 31st August, between 6pm and 9pm.
DAISY audio New Testament now available.
Posted: 4th February 2007 by Anon
DAISY stands for Digital Accessible Information Sytem. It's audio with structure and navigation. Using special DAISY players, books on DAISY CD become truely accessible to blind and partially sighted people.
Torch first used DAISY for Every Day with Jesus - daily Bible readings from CWR. It was the world's first periodical in this format. Using the simple controls on the DAISY player the reader could skip from day to day and navigate the daily content of Bible reading, commentary, prayer and further reading.
Now Torch has completed an audio New Testament in the DAISY format, fully indexed to verse level. It has been a massive task but the results are exciting. First select book, then chapter, then paragraph and finally verse - in around the time it would take a sighted person to find the reference in a print Bible.
The DAISY New Testament is the result of a major collaborative effort. Hodder and Stoughton, publishers of Today's New International Version (TNIV), provided the actor-read digital recording, Torch staff and volunteers structured the audio to add navigation to verse level with all the necessary announcements, and the RNIB produced the disc and packaging.
The DAISY New Testament is available to bona fide blind and partially sighted people in the UK (and elsewhere subject to copyright) from both Torch and the RNIB for £3.99, around the cost of a standard print New Testament.
To order email Torch info@torchtrust.org or call 01858 438260.