Showing results by author "Thornton Chase" in All Categories

Thornton Chase is celebrated as the first individual of Occidental background to embrace the Bahá’í Faith. Throughout his life, he played a pivotal role in organizing Bahá’í activities in Chicago and Los Angeles, establishing himself as a key figure in the community. In 1894, he met Ibrahim Kheiralla, a Bahá’í from Beirut, who introduced him to the teachings of the Faith. By 1895, Chase had become a devoted Bahá’í after completing his studies. His transformative pilgrimage to Akka in 1907, where he spent three days with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, left a profound impact on him, earning ...

Delve into the fascinating life and journey of Thornton Chase, widely acknowledged as the first person of Western descent to embrace the Baháí Faith. Chase was a pivotal figure in organizing Baháí activities in Chicago and Los Angeles, making him a well-respected figure within the Baháí community. His 1907 pilgrimage to Akka profoundly impacted him, particularly his three-day encounter with `Abdul Bahá. So taken was `Abdul Bahá by Chases character, he bestowed upon him the title of Thábit, meaning steadfast. Upon his return, Chase penned his pilgrimage ...