TORCH of Georgia at 110 Dragons Lair, Fayetteville, GA 30215 US - Our Organization's History

Thus, Traditions of Roman Catholic Homes, or TORCH, was formed. It was undeniably the Holy Spirit that energized the small group to grow rapidly and organically. Soon more and more families who similarly wished to encounter a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ turned to TORCH to find fellowship and organized support.

A decade later, TORCH has experienced tremendous expansion, paralleling the growth of the homeschool movement. Today, TORCH is a non-profit organization with a network of more than 100 chapters serving homeschoolers across the United States and Canada.

Membership in TORCH is open to nonhomeschoolers as well, who share a love for the Church, her teachings, and her sacred traditions.

Catholic — TORCH has as its foundation and as the guiding principle in all its functions and activities, fidelity to the teachings and sacred traditions of the Roman Catholic Church, particularly to the Pope — successor to St. Peter and universal teacher in matters of faith and morals — and to the bishops teaching in union with him. TORCH is committed to building the Church byworking from within the heart of the Church.

Vibrant — TORCH views homeschooling as a vibrant and positive educational alternative — not merely a negative reaction against public or parochial schools. Homeschooling is a way that parents can nurture, train, and educate children and pass on faith and culture to the next generation.

Spiritual — TORCH encourages all members to have ongoing spiritual formation, to deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ, and to increase their knowledge of the Catholic faith.

Organized — TORCH chapters organize activities that meet the needs of its members and are at the service of parents who are either considering homeschooling or just looking for a support group with a Catholic identity. Each chapter has one or two leaders who are committed to the TORCH mission and philosophy. They coordinate the planning of activities and the welcoming of new members into their chapters. Regional coordinators have volunteered their time to help chapters in their area with specific needs.

Apostolic — TORCH participates in Christ’s Great Commission to "go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19). TORCH’s apostolic perspective is reflected in programs that focus not only on the religious and academic development of its young members but also on spiritual and corporal acts of mercy. Such apostolic activities include group visits to nursing homes and making rosaries for the missions.