21st Century Religion

2011-11-11T11:41:00.000-08:00

Church of Scientology Celebrates the Opening of an Entirely New Church in Inglewood and Community Center in South Los Angeles

5,000 Scientologists, guests and city officials gathered Saturday November 5, for the dedication of an entirely new Church of Scientology and Church of Scientology Community Center. The Church stands in the heart of downtown, at 315 South Market Street, and reflects the growth of a new Scientology congregation amongst these communities. The neighboring Community Center stands just a few minutes away in South Los Angeles, at 8039 South Vermont Avenue. Together this Church and Community Center provide for all Scientology religious services as well as its many humanitarian initiatives and social betterment programs for the benefit of Inglewood and South Los Angeles.

The new Inglewood Church of Scientology on South Market Street houses a Public Information Center presenting the beliefs and practices of the Scientology religion as well as the life and legacy of Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard. The Information Center further provides an overview of the many Church-sponsored humanitarian programs. These programs include a worldwide human rights initiative, an equally far-ranging drug education and prevention campaign, global networks of literacy and learning centers and the Scientology Volunteer Minister program now comprising the largest independent relief force on Earth. The Information Center’s multimedia displays include nearly 500 documentary films.

The new Community Center on Vermont Avenue is housed in an historic art deco landmark that dates from the early 1930s and which the Church has meticulously restored. It features a 380-seat event hall, the L. Ron Hubbard Community Auditorium, designed for community events and as a meeting ground for residents of all denominations. In that respect, it is a venue dedicated to community-wide initiatives in the spirit of the Founder’s vision of all church denominations working together to achieve the common dream of all religions. The Center further features numerous classrooms and seminar facilities for a full range of civic programs, including a complete literacy and tutoring center.

Marking the significance of the occasion, Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board of Religious Technology Center and ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, officiated at the ceremony. In pointing to what this day represents, Mr. Miscavige stated:

“This new Church of Scientology is quite literally imbued with the contributions and global spirit of Scientologists from more than a hundred nations. In that respect, it reflects the greater shape of Scientology—both body and soul. Moreover, it reflects the attributes of greatness all religions traditionally sought to inspire, including decency, nobility, compassion and charity. And that's also the spirit in which we provide our new Community Center, open for use by one and all, for the benefit of all its residents.”

Welcoming the new Church were Inglewood City Councilmember, Ralph Franklin; Inglewood Chief of Police, Jacqueline Seabrooks; President of NAACP Los Angeles, Leon Jenkins; Executive Director of the gang intervention group 2nd Call, Skipp Townsend; and Rev. Cecil “Chip” Murray, retired head of the First African Methodist Episcopal Church in Los Angeles and now Professor of Religious Studies at USC.

City Councilmember Ralph Franklin welcomed the new Church: “I for one am very excited about your move to your new home. Thank you for being our anchor to Market Street. You are helping revitalize downtown and offering us a platform from which we can make a segue into our greater future. I have faith that your presence will be the catalyst for this city’s renaissance. And so it is with great pleasure that on behalf of all of us here in the City of Inglewood I say congratulations on your new home and welcome to the family.”

Chief of Police Jacqueline Seabrooks spoke of the solutions offered by the Church’s anti-drug initiative: “I have been aware of your Drug-Free World program and know that this program has been supported by various entities here in Inglewood and in the larger environment. I must say that I am impressed by your dedicated initiative to ensure ‘The Truth About Drugs’ message is made available to everyone. Your volunteers are an active force, distributing educational materials and holding drug education seminars. Your colorful, information booklets are popular and effective. Because I have a strong background in education, I admire what you've done and what you continue to do to bring the drug abuse issue into the educational arena.”

Los Angeles NAACP President Leon Jenkins recognized the effectiveness of the Church’s human rights programs: “The Church of Scientology is taking an instrumental role in the change we need because what your Church does is address the individual. You know that everybody is different. That’s why your human rights program speaks to every one of us. And one by one you are helping to bring about a just society that can live in harmony together. The Church sets a standard for others in religion and in human rights. I think there are quite some groups that could take a lesson or two from you all. My hat is off to you for that.”

Executive Director of 2nd Call, Skipp Townsend, acknowledged the empowerment that comes from the Church’s programs: “We are grateful that the Church of Scientology is here and provides a stream of resources to the City of Inglewood. Your church is an open door to those individuals who seek betterment in the community. The beauty of it is that the Church has both developed a community and opened the doors to the community. That’s not just development, that’s empowerment. You empower the people. And I am sure the Church will continue the empowerment process by leaving the door open, so they can come in and get the resources and benefits you have to offer.”

Rev. Cecil “Chip” Murray, retired head of the First A.M.E. Church in Los Angeles and now Professor of Religious Studies at USC, expressed highest regard for Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard and the Church of Scientology: “My friends, this new Church is an opportunity to make change. I encourage you, the community, to take full advantage. L. Ron Hubbard was a genius of a man who could say, ‘Here’s the problem, here’s the solution, and here are the details of how you achieve that solution.’ Well here is a mansion that has been constructed by L. Ron Hubbard, an architect of the soul and a designer of dreams. Our challenge is to make use of what we have been given. I am so very thankful for what you bring us today. God bless you all.”

_________________

Church of Scientology Ideal Orgs realize the fulfillment of Founder L. Ron Hubbard’s vision for the religion. Ideal Orgs not only provide the ideal facilities to service Scientologists on their spiritual ascent, but they are also designed to serve as a home for the entire community and a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift citizens of all denominations.

The Church of Scientology of Inglewood is the third Ideal Org to open in the Greater Los Angeles area since 2010. Other Ideal Churches of Scientology opened in 2011 include:

Church of Scientology of Twin Cities opened October 22, 2011, in Minnesota’s Capital of St. Paul

Church of Scientology of Tampa opened March 13, 2011, in historic Ybor Square

Church of Scientology of Moscow opened February 26, 2011, in the Russian capital’s central Garden Ring, a mile from Red Square

Church of Scientology of Melbourne opened January 29, 2011, in a landmark estate in the cultural capital of Australia.

Other new Ideal Churches of Scientology opened in the past two years include Dallas; Nashville; Washington D.C.; Las Vegas; Los Angeles; Pasadena; Seattle; as well as Malmo, Sweden; Rome, Italy; Brussels, Belgium; Quebec City, Canada and Mexico City, Mexico.

For a complete list of new Churches of Scientology, visit Scientology.org.

_________________

The Scientology religion was founded by author and philosopher L. Ron Hubbard. The first Church of Scientology was formed in Los Angeles in 1954 and the religion has expanded to more than 9,000 Churches, Missions and affiliated groups, with millions of members in 165 countries.

^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2011-09-13T12:47:00.000-07:00

^{^{THE BASICS BOOKS AND LECTURES

Mr. David Miscavige stood before Scientologists gathered from around the world for the much-heralded occasion. He announced that what he was about to describe was nothing less than “the recovery of Dianetics and Scientology”—an event that would “change the world of Scientology forever.” Over the next several hours, he recounted the complete story to an audience of thousands gathered in Clearwater’s Ruth Eckerd Hall.

^²⁰⁰⁵
196 L. Ron Hubbard lectures released in 15 languages simultaneously across the world—largest single audio release in history.
2006
Two Guinness World Records awarded to L. Ron Hubbard: Most Published Author
(1,084 titles) and Most Translated Author (71 languages).
2007
1.8 million pages of L. Ron Hubbard’s writings translated since 2004. Total for prior 50 years 359,459 pages translated.
2008
14,211 hours of translated L. Ron Hubbard lectures recorded since 2005.
2009
March 13: Biggest single publishing event in history—nine L. Ron Hubbard Beginning Books released simultaneously in 50 languages (450 titles). 70 million L. Ron Hubbard books and lectures sold since 2007, more than in the first 50 years of Dianetics and Scientology combined.
Total number of Dianetics and Scientology course graduates is 10 times that of five years ago.
More than 3 million L. Ron Hubbard books on Dianetics and Scientology, in 15 languages, placed in over 125,000 libraries.
Third Guinness World Record to  L. Ron Hubbard, for Most Audiobook  Titles on Earth (185).
December 27: Historic accomplishment crowning the Golden Age of Knowledge, the release in English of L. Ron Hubbard's Advanced Clinical Course Lectures, more than 1,000 lectures and 750 issues comprising the day-to-day record of his path of discovery in Dianetics and Scientology. For the first time, all of L. Ron Hubbard's materials are available to everyone.
2010
Fourth Guinness World Record to L. Ron Hubbard, for the The Way to Happiness—the Most Translated Non-Religious Book on Earth (70 languages).}
"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2011-09-12T11:47:00.000-07:00

^{^{The Scientology religion contains workable answers to the problems people face in their lives. The subject matter of Scientology is all life. It contains practical means through which predictable improvement can be obtained in any area to which it is applied.
Scientology recognizes that man is not just so many vials of chemicals fortuitously combined into a remarkable stimulus-response machine. Scientology views man as a spiritual being with native capabilities which can be improved far beyond what is generally believed possible. In fact, it has been demonstrated that man deteriorates to the degree that he denies his spiritual nature and ceases to live with moral values, such as trust, honesty, integrity and other sometimes intangible characteristics. >>}
"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2011-08-09T16:49:00.000-07:00

A 21^st Century Religion in the Age of Multimedia

Scientology is truly a religion for the 21st century and so utilizes new-millennium technology to carry out its religious mission. To that end, the Church moved into the multimedia age with establishment of state-of-the-art film and audio facilities at Golden Era Productions. Set on 500 acres in Southern California, this is the worldwide dissemination center for the entire Scientology religion, responsible for all film, video, television, Internet and international event production.

It is here the staff of Golden Era Productions produces audiovisual informational and training materials for use within Scientology Churches, as well as films and public service announcements centered on Church-sponsored social betterment activities and humanitarian initiatives.

The focal point of Golden Era Productions is the 80,000-square-foot film studio. The main sound stage rises more than three stories, with an interior the size of two football fields.

Final production of the religious audiovisual properties filmed at Golden Era Productions is accomplished in the cutting-edge post-production facilities, which include six fully digital editing suites, while to create any required digital effects, Golden Era’s special effects department harnesses more than 500 computers with the computing power of 6,360 billion calculations per second.

Moreover, all religious film and video musical scores are produced and mixed in-house in Golden Era’s recording studios. The audio division facilities were designed to meet every production need: from an 84-track studio large enough to accommodate an orchestra, to a 112-track 5.1 cinema surround sound mixing studio.

Golden Era Productions is likewise responsible for the production of all L. Ron Hubbard recorded lectures on Dianetics and Scientology. The lecture studios feature one-of-a-kind echo chambers, used in the restoration and reproduction of Mr. Hubbard’s recordings and built to Golden Era's specifications.

Additionally, there is an entire building devoted to recording translations of Scriptural and other religious materials, where a bank of digital studios operates 24 hours a day. It is here that foreign-language voice talent record Mr. Hubbard’s translated lectures on Dianetics and Scientology in 15 languages.

Cutting-Edge Film Restoration & Preservation

The last decade saw the restoration and release of L. Ron Hubbard filmed lectures and an exclusive interview with Mr. Hubbard. The first to be restored was the Clearing Congress films, a series of six lectures delivered in Washington, D.C. in 1958. The next release, in 2006, was the only filmed interview of L. Ron Hubbard, An Introduction to Scientology shot in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) in 1966. The final restoration was completed and released in 2008, the Classification and Gradation film—shot at the Scientology headquarters in Sussex, England in 1965.

The condition of these films had greatly deteriorated over the ensuing years. The project to fully restore and preserve them was initiated by Mr. David Miscavige and carried out by a 70-person team in Golden Era Productions’ film lab. All told, more than 620,000 frames of the original negatives were digitally scanned, meticulously cleaned by hand and fully restored. The result: Scientologists and the general public now and for all time can experience these seminal lecture series and the exclusive L. Ron Hubbard interview for themselves.

2011-03-04T13:58:00.000-08:00

Ribbon Falls on Australia's
First Ideal Church of Scientology

| Melbourne, Australia • JANUARY 29, 2011 |

January 2011 marks a new era for the Scientology religion in Australia with the opening of its new Melbourne Church.

Thousands of Scientologists, dignitaries and guests from across the nation celebrated a milestone—the opening of the first Ideal Scientology Church in Australia.

Auntie Joy Murphy Wandin, senior elder of the Wurundjeri people, opened the dedication with the traditional “Welcome to Country” ceremony, welcoming Scientologists to the lands of her ancestors.

Scientologist, Melbourne native and award-winning singer and songwriter Kate Ceberano performed a moving rendition of her original composition “This Song is You,” written in honour of the occasion and the heritage of the city and all that Australia holds dear.

In tribute to the significance of the occasion Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board Religious Technology Center and ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, travelled to Melbourne from the United States to officiate at the dedication. He acknowledged the long parade of accomplishments by Australian Scientologists that culminated in the new Church.

“It is my honour to join you this evening and commemorate a moment that will live on in history for a long time to come. Not that you haven’t loomed large in history before, not that you haven’t triumphed over great adversity in years gone by, not that you didn’t stand firm for the dignity of Man, and not that you didn’t indeed uphold the God-given rights of all religions all over this world.

“But having triumphed today in the name of our religion, you just flipped this planet all the way around so that Melbourne now sits on top of the globe. And that’s what it means to build an Ideal Org beneath the Southern Cross.”

Mr. Miscavige also spoke of Melbourne’s hallowed place in Scientology history, noting that Founder L. Ron Hubbard himself came to Melbourne in November 1959 to deliver a series of lectures to its founding Scientology community. As Mr. Miscavige explained: “Those November 1959 lectures marked a turn in the path and a rise in the road, from which the whole panorama of human potential came into focus. Whence, the highest levels of Scientology and the whole vista of spiritual enlightenment and freedom.

“So you wonder where you stand in the history and legacy of LRH and our religion as a whole? None of it would exist were it not for what began right here—and that’s both the heritage and legacy, which is indelibly woven through the brickwork of your new Ideal Org of Melbourne.”

Acknowledging the Church for its many contributions to the community were Melbourne Lord Mayor the Honourable Robert Doyle, Moonee Valley City Councillor Paul Giuliano, Shadow Minister for Tourism and Major Events, the Honourable Justin Madden, Sociologist Professor Gary Bouma and former Indigenous Person of the Year Uncle Bob Randall.

Praising the Church’s active role in community life, Lord Mayor Robert Doyle told those assembled: “Today marks an historic occasion for Scientology. The building you see before you is the first of its type in Australasia, and the re-birth of an historic Melbourne building. This is a unique space. I hope benefits flow in partnerships, community connection and goodwill. I invite you to celebrate this opening in the heart of our exciting, welcoming and diverse Melbourne.”

Moonee Valley City Councillor Paul Giuliano welcomed the congregation to his metropolitan Melbourne community where the Church is located: “I know that I speak for many when I say thank you so very much for restoring this beloved landmark to its former glory. I cannot think of a better custodian than the Church of Scientology.”

The occasion was a reunion for teacher, football icon and Victoria Shadow Minister Justin Madden, who attended the Catholic University within the walls of what is now the new Scientology Church. He commended the Church for its historic preservation as well as its literacy and drug education initiatives: “Unselfishly, you work to provide ways and means to uplift our society. You have set the standard for the community with your restoration of this building and with your social programs—an example I will point to for others to follow. Your new Church is as Melbourne as Melbourne gets.”

Human rights activist Bob Randall, whose award-winning documentary, Kanyini, exposed the plight of the Aboriginal “stolen generations,” thanked the Church and its Scientology Volunteer Ministers program for its commitment to the indigenous people of Australia: “Scientology Volunteer Ministers have come to my country and given us hope that we can deal with these problems and we will make a difference in the near future. The Volunteer Ministers I’ve met have become my friends. The fellowship between us has been fun and I look forward to continuing that relationship to continue on to the present into the future. On behalf of me and my people, I thank you.”

Melbourne has long held importance for the Scientology religion. Within months of L. Ron Hubbard authoring Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health in 1950, the first Dianetics group in Australia was formed here and in 1955 the first Scientology Church in Australia opened in this city.

Australia similarly long held a place near to L. Ron Hubbard’s heart, beginning with his service “Down Under” as a United States Naval Officer through the first days of World War II. Principally stationed in Brisbane, but also operating from Melbourne, then Lieutenant Hubbard was charged with organising relief efforts for Allied troops trapped in the Philippines. He also proudly served with Australian gunnery units for the defence of Brisbane.

As Scientology Founder, L. Ron Hubbard returned to Australia in 1959 to deliver two historic lecture series: The Melbourne Congress and the 1^st Melbourne Advanced Clinical Course. Remembered today for his delineation of the highest spans of the Scientology Bridge, Mr. Hubbard’s Australian lectures will forever hold a cherished place in the religion.

Today, the Melbourne Scientology Church is the first Ideal Church of Scientology Organisation in Australia, realising Mr. Hubbard’s vision for what Scientology can provide for its congregation and community.

The Church now stands on the site of the 19th century estate of Robert McCracken, leading businessman and founder of the legendary Essendon Bombers football team. After the turn of the 20th century, this building became the home of Mercy Teachers’ College, later part of the Catholic University. The original name of the estate is “Ailsa” for Ailsa Craig, an island off the west coast of Scotland from where the McCracken family sailed more than 150 years ago.

Melbourne’s Public Information Centre offers more than 450 informational films illustrating Scientology beliefs, the life and legacy of Founder L. Ron Hubbard, and the full array of Church-sponsored social betterment and community outreach programs.

The Chapel seats hundreds, the library contains all Church Scripture. Course rooms and counselling rooms accommodate Scientologists from throughout Victoria. Seminar rooms, film rooms and Life Improvement Course rooms make effective solutions to the most pressing challenges people face today easily available to Scientologists and non-Scientologists alike. Workspaces for volunteers stand open and ready for use by parishioners and the community.

_______________________

Under the guidance of Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board Religious Technology Center and ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, 23 Ideal Churches have been dedicated and opened since 2003, including those in world cultural capitals—The National Church of South Africa in Johannesburg; the National Church of Scientology of Spain in Madrid; the Church of Scientology of New York, just off Times Square; the Church of Scientology of London, located in the epicentre of the city; the Church of Scientology of Italy in Rome; the Church of Scientology of Washington, D.C., just blocks from the White House on “Church Row”; the National Church of Scientology Mexico, in Mexico City; and the Church of Scientology of Berlin, near the Brandenburg Gate. Another 60 Ideal Churches are in design, planning or construction phases.

The Scientology religion was founded by author and philosopher L. Ron Hubbard. The first Church of Scientology was formed in the United States in 1954 and has today expanded to more than 9,000 Churches, Missions and affiliated groups, with millions of members in 165 countries.

2011-02-07T14:22:00.000-08:00

^{^{Scientology Dissemination and Distribution Center Video}

^{What a video! Incredible what the Church of Scientology is doing and their expansion--never seen anything like it.}
"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2011-02-06T21:02:00.000-08:00

^{^{L. RON HUBBARD’S BOOKS NOW AVAILABLE IN LENDING LIBRARIES ACROSS 192 LANDS}
^{2010 saw the completion of a two-year project to provide Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard’s beginning books of Dianetics and Scientology to every lending library on Earth. Today, through the placement of Mr. Hubbard’s books and audiobooks in libraries across 192 nations, billions now have access to the tenets and beliefs of the Scientology religion for the first time.
“I know no man who has any monopoly upon the wisdom of this universe. It belongs to those who can use it to help themselves and others.” —L. Ron Hubbard}
"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

Official Church of Scientology: David Miscavige - Creating a New Era of Expansion

2010-09-10T09:04:00.000-07:00

David Miscavige - Creating a New Era of Expansion: "David Miscavige works for—and answers to—Scientology’s millions of parishioners. He is unrelenting in his service to their interests and the interests of the religion. The period of stellar growth he has spearheaded has been described as nothing short of the renaissance of the Scientology religion."

A culture is only as great as its dreams, and its dreams are dreamed by artists. — Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard

2010-08-26T20:17:00.000-07:00

^{^{Mr. David Miscavige--Releases new Dianetics Film}
^{The Scientology web site has this description of last summer's release by David Miscavige of the brand new book-on-film called How to Use Dianetics. This has totally revolutionized the application of Dianetics auditing (counseling). In the course of a weekend you can do a seminar, using this film, and twin up with someone and dig in on the things you always wanted to handle and never knew how.}

^{In June 2009, Mr. David Miscavige announced the single most momentous advance in Dianetics technology since the day of its original publication on May 9, 1950. Here's what it says:}
^{It was a project personally overseen by Mr. Miscavige for the better part of four years and culminating in the release of materials that would make Dianetics universally accessible.}
^{The goal: to provide every group, Mission and Scientology Church with the ability to deliver Dianetics counseling as L. Ron Hubbard originally intended.}
^{Central to the advance was an audiovisual release that propels the subject and study of Dianetics into the 21^st century. Specifically, there are now 32 new films in 15 languages—a total of four and a half hours of visual instruction in the principles and procedures of Dianetics.
As Mr. Miscavige announced to an international audience of Scientologists, “These films are not about Dianetics. Rather, they are films of Dianetics.” To that end, benefiting from the advancements of this visual communications age and computer-generated special effects, the films provide an unprecedented level of comprehension to the viewer.

Like Book One itself (so named as it was the first major work on the subject), the films begin in simplicity and develop into broader application. To ensure full understanding, every facet of Dianetics counseling, called auditing, is described and depicted in several ways, then reintroduced again and again through subsequent films.}
^{The DVD package consists of two discs: The first, How to Use Dianetics, comprises 14 chapters. It opens with the basics and, step by step, presents every concept needed to begin Dianetics therapy.}
^{Once an individual is auditing, Disc Two, Aspects of Auditing, comes into play. Each of its 18 chapters (3 hours total) is a self-contained film expanding upon a single aspect of Dianetics and providing total comprehension relative to auditing.}
^{This tour de force presentation delivers a mastery of Book One never before possible.}
"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

Golden Era Productions - A 21st Century Religion in the Age of Multimedia

2010-08-18T20:25:00.000-07:00

Lectures and Films of L. Ron Hubbard Restored

The last decade saw the restoration and release of L. Ron Hubbard filmed lectures and an exclusive interview with Mr. Hubbard. The first to be restored was the Clearing Congress films, a series of six lectures delivered in Washington, D.C. in 1958. The next release, in 2006, was the only filmed interview of L. Ron Hubbard, An Introduction to Scientology shot in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) in 1966. The final restoration was completed and released in 2008, the Classification and Gradation film—shot at the Scientology headquarters in Sussex, England in 1965.

Is Man a spirit?

2010-08-17T10:24:00.000-07:00

Is Man a spirit?

Here's what Scientology says about this:

Yes. A short exercise can quickly answer this for anyone: Ask someone to close their eyes and get a picture of a cat, and they will get a mental image picture of a cat. Ask them who is looking at the picture of the cat and they will respond “I am.” That which is looking at the cat is you, a spirit. One is a spirit, who has a mind and occupies a body. You are you in a body."

News about the Scientology Volunteer Minister at Blog.VolunteerMinisters.Org!

2010-08-01T22:36:00.000-07:00

What was the real reason L. Ron Hubbard decided to found a religion?

In 1954, L. Ron Hubbard wrote:

"Scientology has accomplished the goal of religion expressed in all man's written history: the freeing of the soul by wisdom.

"It is a far more intellectual religion than that known to the West as late as 1950.

"If we, without therapy, simply taught our truths, we would bring civilization to a barbaric West."

Under the leadership of David Miscavige, Scientologists are working to accomplish this before it's too late to reverse the dangerous trends in our various countries.

2010-07-31T11:25:00.000-07:00

Scientology in the Next Decade of the 21st Century

This second decade of the 21st Century is going to be the tipping point for Scientology. You can just feel it with all the new Ideal Scientology Churches being opened in key cities around the world.

When he officiated the grand opening of the Church of Scientology of Seattle last weekend, David Miscavige said:

“Just this year alone, we have opened six new Ideal Churches on three continents. While in months to come you’ll see ribbons parting as far away as Tel Aviv, Melbourne and Moscow, and as close to home as Twin Cities, Sacramento and Portland—to cite but a few of the more than 60 new Churches now looming on the near horizon."

And Mr. Miscavige then said WHY we are doing this and with so much zeal:

“So, yes, you are part of a movement that qualifies as ‘history in the making.’ Moreover, it is a movement that is all-embracive, all-inclusive and all about ensuring no one falls between the cracks. Because when you possess a technology capable of restoring the infinite goodness in every human being, then every life becomes immeasurably precious.”

2010-07-13T10:43:00.000-07:00

Freedom Magazine Takes on Anderson Cooper

Anderson Cooper may have thought he was in trouble because of his terrible ratings. But that was before her really got in trouble.

This edition of Freedom Magazine is hysterical...at Cooper's expense.

All I can say is he had it coming.

^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2010-07-01T21:29:00.000-07:00

I called this blog the 21st Century Religion blog because that's really what Scientology is. It is the only major religion to be born in the 20th Century and has experienced the greatest expansion in its 60 year history in the past seven years.

L. Ron Hubbard in the Founder of the Scientology religion. He is not considered a "prophet" or God. He was a genius and his written and recorded works are the Scripture of Scientology. With an understanding of the basic principles of Scientology there is literally nothing the individual cannot understand and accomplish in life.

The leader of the Scientology religion is David Miscavige. His is a young, vibrant, compassionate man whose work has directly resulted in the expansion of Scientology since he assumed the responsibility of being the ecclesiastical leader in 1986.

The Scientology web site is set up to answer any questions a person may have about this 21st Century Religion, and starts you off with information you can use to improve your relationships and life.
^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2010-06-18T08:58:00.000-07:00

The Scientology website says: Scientology addresses the spirit—not the body or mind—and believes that Man is far more than a product of his environment, or his genes.

This video tells more about this basic point of research by L. Ron Hubbard that is a fundamental of Scientology philosophy. It's quite liberating to know who you really are.

It's the person, not where they are from, their nationality, sex, ethnic or religious background, that counts. Any everyone has the potential of increasing their ability and overcoming their limitations. That's what Scientology is about.

^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2010-06-16T13:00:00.000-07:00

Patheos on Scientology

Patheos is an interfaith web site with information on most major religions. their section on Scientology isn't too bad. It gives the major strokes, and doesn't insist on hoked up "controversy, but it is not as faithful to the actual beliefs of Scientology as the Scientology web site. But if you have someone who won't believe anything unless it comes from a 3rd party (a principle that comes out of psychology, where they are so sure their experimental subjects will lie to them that they have to figured out how to get the information they want on a totally circuitous path), then this gives some interesting content.

^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2010-06-15T09:32:00.000-07:00

The history of Scientology

Helium has a good article on Scientology today by Ray Charles.

Scientology, which means the "study of knowledge and truth," is a religion founded in the 1950s by the noted science fiction writer L. Ron Hubbard.

Hubbard, born March 13, 1911, in Tilden, Nebraska, traveled widely as a youth, including several trips to Asia. His observation of misery and poverty, especially during his Asia visits, caused him to question the very nature of man.

During the 30s and 40s, he wrote extensively on the subject, but it wasn't until May 1950 that he published Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health, which formed the basis for Scientology. Hubbard defined Dianetics as "what the soul is doing to the body." He promoted it as a methodology to help alleviated unwanted emotions, irrational fears, and psychosomatic illness.

Although the initial press run of Dianetics was only 6,000 copies, it became an instant sensation and, to date, has sold over 21 million copies.

Scientology has gained many converts in just over half a century (estimates range from 100 thousand to 10 million adherents worldwide), but it remains one of the most controversial of the 'new' religions. Some of the controversy has been fueled by public actions and statements by high-profile celebrities like Tom Cruise, who are Scientologists.

Scientology holds that man is basically good, but it's their experiences that cause people to do evil. People who think only of their own interests, and ignore how their acts affect others, create interpersonal strife. Individuals achieve enlightenment, according to the basic tenets of the religion, by preserving their spiritual integrity and values, and remaining honest and decent.

While many religions try to solve people's problems for them, Scientology believes in elevating the individual to improve his or her own life. In doing so, the Scientologist naturally reaches out to others.

According to Hubbard's philosophy, the individual is not a body but a spirit. Hubbard called this spirit or soul 'thetan,' from the Greek letter theta, a traditional symbol for thought and life. The thetan, Hubbard maintained, was the person himself, not his name or title - that which is aware of being aware.

The main religious practice of Scientology is a form of spiritual counseling called 'auditing.' It is a precisely codified set of questions used to help the individual become more self aware and thus improve his own condition. The goal of Scientology is to make the individual more spiritually aware and in touch with his thetan, and less dependent on the material universe.

2010-05-31T11:49:00.000-07:00

Scientology Churches and Missions Celebrate 60th Anniversary of Dianetics the Modern Science of Mental Health

Scientologists mark a new era for Dianetics at events in Scientology Churches and Missions around the world—tens of thousands attend.

Tens of thousands of Scientologists attended events in every Scientology Church and Mission this month. The outstanding Dianetics auditors, groups and booksellers in each zone were awarded in the celebration of the 60 years since the first publication of Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health by L. Ron Hubbard. The anniversary also marked the greatest expansion of Dianetics in history, with more than 4,500 Dianetics Groups around the world and record numbers of visitors to the Dianetics website from more than 20,000 cities in 214 nations. Since its first publication May 9, 1950, more than 21.8 million copies of Dianetics have been sold.

The Dianetics boom started in March 2009 when Mr. David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, announced the completion of a project to place Dianetics and 17 other hardback Scientology and Dianetics titles, published in 16 languages, in more than 97,000 libraries—every national, city and university lending library in the world. Then, to open the subject up to 90 percent of the world’s population, that same month Dianetics and eight other beginning Dianetics and Scientology books were published in paperback editions in 50 languages.

With Dianetics more accessible than ever in history, in June 2009 Mr. Miscavige released “How to Use Dianetics,” a film that revolutionized the subject. In four and one-half hours, the film covers the Dianetics book in such detail that those watching are able to immediately put Dianetics technology to use. As Mr. Miscavige announced to an international audience of Scientologists, “These films are not about Dianetics. Rather, they are films of Dianetics.”

The film is the centerpiece of the new Dianetics Seminar, offered in Scientology Churches, Missions and Dianetics groups on five continents.

At the seminar, with the guidance of trained Dianetics supervisors, attendees pair up to apply Dianetics to each other, using the information they have just learned. The book and film are so descriptive of Dianetics procedure, those living far from a Scientology Church or Mission can watch the film on their own, read the book and begin to use the technology at home, and many do.

The application of Dianetics technology to another is called “auditing” from the Latin word audire, “to listen.” “My last year has been a complete hell,” wrote one person who decided to attend a Dianetics seminar and receive auditing to sort this out. “I had so many things hidden inside. Now that I got everything off my chest, I feel extremely relieved.”

“I feel revitalized,” said another seminar participant. “I have much better understanding and compassion for people who are struggling with pain and loss on a daily basis and don’t even realize it.”

A significant aspect of the Dianetics seminar is that while receiving help, one learns to help another. “Wow! It was a great experience to assist someone to get through a painful event,” said an attendee. “To see the person brighten up is so amazing.”

With Dianetics gaining popularity from Katmandu, Nepal, to Kiisi, Kenya, and from Almaty, Kazakhstan, to Bergamo, Italy, last year a record-breaking 3.7 million hours of Dianetics auditing were delivered internationally. For more information on Dianetics or to order a copy of Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health, visit the Dianetics website.

2010-05-26T16:30:00.000-07:00

Anonymous Hate Group Member Sentenced for Attack on Scientology Websites

On Monday, May 24, 2010, Los Angeles Federal District Judge Gary Allen Feess sentenced Brian Thomas Mettenbrink of Grand Island, Nebraska, to 12 months in federal prison and a $20,000 restitution fine for engaging in a cyberattack in January 2008 on Church of Scientology websites (CR No. 09-1149-GAF). Mettenbrink is a member of the hate group “Anonymous,” many members of which have been investigated or convicted of federal and state crimes over the past three years.

Scientology.org, the attacked website, is the central information site of the worldwide religion. According to the federal prosecutor’s sentencing memorandum, Mettenbrink “maliciously participated in a scheme to damage a computer belonging to the Church of Scientology.” The Department of Justice prosecutor stated, “Our free society will cease to function if a malicious few are free to target individuals because of their religious beliefs.”

Noting that the acts were “in the nature of a hate crime” because the target was a religious organization, Judge Feess further ordered that during probation following his jail sentence, Mettenbrink must stay 100 yards away from any Church of Scientology. Judge Feess also stated the “nature and circumstances are serious” and that a sentence higher than the federal guidelines was necessary and warranted “to protect the public” from further criminal conduct.

Mettenbrink is the second Anonymous member to be sentenced in the last seven months for the January 2008 cyberattack. In November 2009, Dmitriy Guzner of Verona, New Jersey, was sentenced by Newark U.S. District Court Judge Joseph Greenaway to a 366-day prison term, plus two years probation. Guzner was also ordered to pay $37,500 restitution to the Church. A Department of Justice press release issued at the time charges were filed against Guzner stated “According to the criminal information filed in United States District Court in Los Angeles, Guzner participated in the attack because he considered himself a member of an underground group called ‘Anonymous.’”

^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2010-04-30T16:28:00.000-07:00

If you missed David Miscavige dedicating the newest Scientology org, you missed a great event.

I usually hate crowds, but I totally loved being in this one. (You can see me way up in the upper left hand corner--just kidding--I was just out of view of the camera in this shot.)

Anyway -- the Church of Scientology of Los Angeles is definitely the happening place, and anyone can come in for a tour and ask any questions they like. ^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2010-04-29T09:18:00.000-07:00

^{This org is outrageous! What a gorgeous place. If you have something you could use some help with--a relationship problem, drug problem, trouble at school, feel like your job is a dead end street (or can't get a job) there is some Scientology technology that can help you and if you come into the Church of Scientology of Los Angeles you can get help with it.}^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2010-04-27T19:41:00.000-07:00

David Miscavige Spoke at Los Angeles Church Grand Opening

Here I am for a second day still talking about Saturday's LA Org grand opening. I keep thinking of more people I can invite to come and tour. These facilities are made to be used, and any community group or organization that wants to have the primo place to meet or hold an event should contact the Church to book the use of one of their rooms. That's what they're for!

It was so inspiring listening to David Miscavige. What a genius he is. We are so lucky to have him!
^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2010-04-26T10:04:00.000-07:00

LA Org—Grand Opening Church of Scientology of Los Angeles

Saturday was the Grand Opening of the new Church of Scientology of Los Angeles. It is magnificent. And it is totally there for us—for Scientologists, new Scientologists, people just looking into the subject, neighbors, community groups, everybody.

The speeches were incredible, especially by Sheriff Lee Baca and David Miscavige.

And it is the most beautiful building—every detail cared for.

If you are new to the subject and ever wondered, "What is Scientology?" come in and check it out. This is the perfect opportunity. It's on Sunset Boulevard just west of Vermont. You can't miss it.

^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2010-04-09T13:25:00.001-07:00

Scientology Volunteers Gather Signatures on Human Rights Petitions in 21 Countries

On United Nations Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, Scientologists call for mandatory human rights education to promote peace and tolerance

LOS ANGELES—Volunteers from Churches of Scientology in 21 countries including Denmark, France, Australia, South Africa and Canada gathered signatures on human rights petitions March 21, on United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Discrimination. The petition drives were done to gain support for mandatory human rights education, and to bring about realization of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights statement that “…recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world.”

The Declaration was ratified by the UN General Assembly more than 60 years ago, yet racial and ethnic conflicts fuel wars throughout the world. The Scientologists say the answer is in human rights education.

The United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is held each year on the anniversary of the day in 1960 when police opened fire in Sharpeville, South Africa, on a crowd of unarmed Black South Africans, killing 69 civilians who were protesting the repressive apartheid laws.

In a speech marking the 50 years since the Sharpeville tragedy, UN Secretary General Ban Kid-moon said, “The United Nations marks the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on this solemn anniversary to reaffirm our commitment to guard against a repeat of the horrors rooted in racism - from slavery to the Holocaust, from apartheid to ethnic cleansing and genocide.”

In addition to petition drives, Churches of Scientology partner with Youth for Human Rights International (YHRI) to carry out a human rights awareness campaign to educate people of all ages on human rights.

“Most people don’t know the rights covered in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,” said Tracie Morrow, Youth Coordinator for the Los Angeles-based Church of Scientology International Human Rights Office.

“Without an understanding of these rights as covered in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights people will not demand their own rights, let alone defend the rights of others. Through human rights education we have found young people become much more tolerant and understanding and many are inspired to become human rights advocates,” said Morrow.

The Church of Scientology has championed the Universal Declaration of Human Rights for more than 50 years and sponsors the largest non-governmental information campaign to make the Universal Declaration of Human Rights known the world over. The Church’s human rights initiative sponsors groups and activities and provides its materials to individuals, groups and government agencies in 82 nations. For more information on the human rights initiative of the Church of Scientology visit the Scientology website.

2010-03-23T14:18:00.000-07:00

Scientology Relief Ship to Haiti

The Scientology Disaster Relief team is sending a ship to Haiti, according to the Huffington Post.

It's bringing a school bus, 20,000 MREs (meals ready to eat), and ambulance, crutches and a new team of Scientology volunteers to Port-au-Prince.

^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2010-03-16T15:40:00.000-07:00

Scientologist Plans Cross-Country Ultra Marathon to Promote Moral Values

Fifty-four-year-old Scientologist from Monrovia, California, runs to combat violence and help youth make the right moral choices.

Ultra-marathoner John Radich is already training for the May 2010 launch of a 3,700-mile run to promote moral values. His Trans USA Run will follow historic Route 66 from Santa Monica to Chicago, and will carry on from there to New York City and Washington, DC.

Along the route, John will hand out The Way To Happiness, a non-religious moral code based wholly on common sense that can serve as a guide to better living. “Violence is a fact of life in our society, ” says Radich. “It doesn’t have to be that way. If youth learn common-sense values they can make the right choices.”

In addition to distributing booklets, Radich will hand out The Way To Happiness DVDs containing the unabridged book on film.

Radich, 54, has completed hundreds of ultra marathons and covered 30,000 miles since his first in 1979, raising over $100,000 for charities in the process.

He is a nine-time finisher of the 135-mile Badwater Run from Death Valley to Mt. Whitney, known as one of the world’s toughest races. He is a three-time Arizona Six-Day Run winner for 2005, 2006 and 2007 and has also run in the Angeles Crest 100-miler. In 1999 John ran for Human Rights from Athens, Greece, to Hamburg, Germany.

For more information or to help sponsor the program, visit the website at http://www.thetransusarun.blogspot.com/ or e-mail John at thetransusarun@gmail.com.

2010-01-12T09:11:00.000-08:00

Los Angeles Daily News writes that "More than 1,000 lost pieces of Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard's work were unveiled [by David Miscavige] in a New Year's celebration at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles that was broadcast to churches around the world last week.

"This is breakthrough - it would be like Christianity finding lost Gospels on the teachings of Jesus Christ," said Bill Orozco, a Los Angeles consultant who has worked with Scientology's Celebrity Centre in Hollywood.

In its five-plus decades of existence, Scientology has grown to include millions of members worldwide, including high-profile celebrities such as actors John Travolta and Tom Cruise.

^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2009-12-18T11:39:00.000-08:00

Church of Scientology hoping South End move will clear up misconceptions
by Kate Lindsmith
Contributing Writer
Wednesday Dec 16, 2009

Timeframe of move remains undecided almost a year after sale of Alexandra Hotel

Having spent more than three decades in the heart of the Back Bay, the Church of Scientology is still working on moving its headquarters to the South End. The church plans to renovate space in the Alexandra Hotel building and a neighboring brownstone, thus expanding its base to nearly twice the size of its current 26,000-square-foot location at 448 Beacon Street. The church bought the space in early 2008 from previous owner, Peter Bakis, for an undisclosed amount, but has yet to move its operation.

The sale came as a surprise, as city officials had expected the building to be converted into condos with retail space on the ground floor. Since the announcement, reaction from some in the South End community and the media has been split, but church officials hope the new location will serve to educate people about Scientology and lead them to draw their own conclusions.

"The main reason it’s so great is because when someone walks in and says, ’What is this place?’ you can see exactly what it is about and answer any questions that you have without making easy mistakes," said Kevin Hall, the church’s Social Reform Director.

Christopher Garrison serves as a minister on weekends and weeknights, delivering a Sunday sermon every week. With 39 years of experience in the church, Garrison said Scientology has motivated him to pursue injustice, learn more about psychology and realize his full physical and emotional potential.

After attending a Cambridge lecture in 1971, Garrison said he found a union of his passions for psychology and eastern religion in Scientology, a religion founded on mental and spiritual guidelines by author L. Ron Hubbard in 1954.

^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2009-12-11T22:05:00.000-08:00

French Scientologists Celebrate UN Human Rights Year of Learning

Scientology Youth in France in partnership with Youth for Human Rights International work to give new meaning to human rights education.

Scientology volunteers across France are promoting human rights education, in support of the United Nations International Year of Human Rights Learning that began on December 10, 2008. The day is also marked as Human Rights Day, in honor of the United Nation’s adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948, a document drafted by a UN Committee chaired by Eleanor Roosevelt to protect human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Champions of human rights for decades, Churches of Scientology have spearheaded human rights reforms since the 1950s and in partnership with Youth for Human Rights International have distributed over 1.5 million human rights educational publications and obtained over 200,000 signatures in support of human rights education.

In France, volunteers of Scientology Churches are gearing up for Human Rights Day 2009 after a year of weekly human rights education events in Paris, Lyons, Marseilles, Vannes, Clermont-Ferrand, and Nice. Dedicating more than 5,000 man-hours to the cause over the past year, the young activists estimate they have promoted the UDHR to more than 48,000 people in France in 2009.

In addition to gaining support from individuals for human rights education through petition drives, the youth have distributed human rights booklets at music concerts, discussed actions to counter racial discrimination on a radio program and created their own song and dance performances demonstrating the UDHR article on Freedom of Expression. The volunteers also supported UN General-Secretary Ban Ki Moon’s call for a global ceasefire on the International Day of Peace, by distributing booklets at the Esplanade des Droits de l’Homme (Esplanade of Human Rights) where a monument commemorates the UN General Assembly’s adoption of the Universal Declaration.

“Human rights are something everyone needs to know,” said one volunteer. “Then you make sure everybody’s human rights are respected, including your own.”

2009-12-02T17:45:00.000-08:00

^{Scientology Churches Celebrate Children’s Rights on 20th Anniversary of International Children’s Day}

Scientology Churches and their members, from Australia to Zimbabwe and Canada to the Ukraine celebrate the rights of children by demanding action by private citizens and governments on International Children’s Day. Twenty years ago the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child, yet millions of children still die each year from preventable causes.

Scientologists ask:

· If the Convention on the Rights of the Child guarantees freedom from want, why do almost 16,000 children die of malnutrition—one child every five seconds?

· If children have the right to life, why did nearly 10 million children die in 2006 before they reached their fifth birthday?

· Why did an estimated 2 million children lose at least one parent to AIDS in southern Africa in 2003, a number expected to rise to 18 million in the year 2010?

· Why have an estimated 20 million children been forced to flee their homes because of conflict and human rights violations?

· How could 10,000 children be killed or maimed last year by landmines? Why have more than 2 million children died and 6 million been permanently disabled or seriously injured through armed conflicts?

· How come 300,000 boys and girls under the age of 18 have been pressed into service as child soldiers?

· And why do one million children suffer from sexual exploitation every year?

Churches of Scientology believe the answer lies with each of us, that only when people know their rights and freedoms will they insist on their enforcement, not only for themselves but for others.

That is why Scientology Churches partner with Youth for Human Rights International (YHRI) and United for Human Rights (UHR) in distributing the documentary The Story of Human Rights.

Released in June 2009 The Story of Human Rights is an educational tour de force, making the subject of human rights, its history and ramifications understandable to a very broad audience, used to getting their information as entertainment in this multimedia age. The film lays the responsibility for implementing human rights where it belongs—with each one of us, to fight for our own rights and the rights of others.

The Story of Human Rights explains that although the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly, “…it did not have the force of law. It was optional. And despite many more documents, conventions, treaties and laws, it is still little more than words on a page.”

The film ends with a hard-hitting appeal to the individual: “Those who fight today against torture, poverty and discrimination are not giants or superheroes. They are people—kids, mothers, fathers, teachers—free-thinking individuals who refuse to be silent, who realize that human rights are not a history lesson, they’re not words on a page, they’re not speeches or commercials or PR campaigns. They are the choices we make every day as human beings. They are the responsibility we all share, to respect each other, to help each other and to protect those in need.”

Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard once wrote, “Human rights must be made a fact, not an idealistic dream.” Understanding human rights is the first step in bringing this about.

To sign a petition to mandate human rights education in schools in your country or to watch The Story of Human Rights online, visit www.humanrights.com. To learn more about the human rights education initiative of the Church of Scientology, visit the Scientology site.

2009-11-14T11:00:00.000-08:00

Scientology Volunteer Ministers Restore Hope in the Land of Dreams

In a very quiet way, day by day, Scientology Volunteer Ministers on the Outback Goodwill Tour help people overcome the barriers to their happiness and renew the dreams of the people of dreams—the indigenous people of the Australian Outback.

The plagues that dominate indigenous Australian culture are drug and alcohol abuse and illiteracy. In 2005, the reading levels of less than half of third year Aboriginal students and only 31 percent of fifth year students met national standards. While only 5 percent of Australia’s 10-17-year-olds are Indigenous, they make up 40 percent of all young people in the nation’s juvenile justice system. A report released in June 2009 found that Indigenous Australians are 13 times more likely to end up in jail than the rest of the population. The report found a clear link between drug and alcohol abuse and the high number of incarcerated Indigenous people.

The Scientology Volunteer Ministers Goodwill Tour tackles these problems in villages and camps on a one-on-one basis, using Study Technology, the Answers to Drugs Booklet, and Scientology Assists—”spiritual first aid” that helps establish the person’s communication with his or her body to overcome the pain and discomfort often associated with withdrawal. This spiritual technology, developed by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, is making a difference in the lives of these people, one person at a time.

Alice Springs is a cultural meeting place for the 60,000 Indigenous Australians of the Northern Territory. An additional 2,000-3,000 Indigenous people pass through 18 outlying town camps and thousands visit the Todd dry riverbed, a sacred site that runs through the town. Volunteer Ministers have introduced hundreds living in the city and camps and those making the spiritual trek to the city to technology to help with drug addiction, literacy, ethics and morality.

An elder from Alice Springs heard about the Volunteer Ministers on the “bush telegraph” (in other words, by word of mouth) and how much their Scientology Assists had helped people. When she encountered the volunteers she had them train her to give Assists and she now uses them regularly with her own friends and family. A Lutheran pastor from Hermannsburg heard about Assists and he too is now delivering them—and has taught 30 others this technology.

With their motto “Something can be done about it,” the Goodwill Tour reaches hundreds of people each month, and through training them in these tools for better living, reach out to an entire culture.

For more information on the Volunteer Ministers Goodwill Tours visit the Scientology Volunteer Ministers website at www.volunteerministers.org.
^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2009-11-04T12:50:00.000-08:00

New Church of Scientology Opens Doors to Rome

Thousands attend grand opening of new Church in Rome;
All invited to find out for themselves “What is Scientology?”

More than 6,000 people gathered in Rome’s Casalotti de Boccea district Saturday, October 24, to celebrate the grand opening of the new Church of Scientology Rome.

The 6,400-square-meter Church, situated on 28 acres of parkland, marks the largest expansion to date for Scientology in its 30-year history in Italy. The new Church will serve parishioners of Central Italy and other regions of the Mediterranean.

Signifying the stature and prominence of this new Church, the ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, Mr. David Miscavige, welcomed parishioners to their new home in the historical crossroads of Western civilization. Speaking of what inspired every Scientologist to make this new Church possible, he stated:

“How on earth can one possibly speak of history without a nod to Rome? This City of God, this City of Man, this center of the Western world for at least a thousand years - if ever a place was destined for an Ideal Church of Scientology, it’s here. For what better arena to show what Scientology can do than this age-old religious empire?”

Among those participating in the dedication of the new Scientology Church were Dino De Pasquale, Disaster Manager of the Civil Protection Agency; Professor Silvio Calzolari of the Theological Faculty at the Vatican University in Florence; Professor Luigi Berzano, Professor of Sociology of Religions at the University of Turin; and Ms. Laura Guercio, President of Legal Aid Worldwide.

The new home for the Church of Scientology of Rome is a contemporary building that has undergone extensive remodeling to accommodate all Scientology religious services, the many community activities of Church members, and introductory services for visitors.

An expansive Public Information Center houses a permanent interactive multimedia exhibit containing more than 230 films covering the Church’s beliefs, practices and activities. Along with descriptions of Scientology principles and information on the life and accomplishments of Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, the displays also cover the Church-sponsored international social programs that effectively combat drug abuse, illiteracy, criminality, immorality and human rights violations. The Church’s doors are open to anyone to take self-guided tours through the Public Information Center to find out about Scientology for themselves.

The Church of Scientology of Rome will coordinate the social betterment programs of the Church in Central Italy. With two decades of experience in drug prevention, its “Say No to Drugs, Say Yes to Life” program provides proven solutions to one of the most pressing problems in Italian society.

In his dedication address, Mr. Miscavige emphasized the importance of the Church’s social mission and stressed to the Scientologists in attendance the vital necessity of taking responsibility for the community in which they live:

“You owe [Rome] our salvage campaigns to eradicate drug abuse, instill a respect for human rights and provide basic technology for living through The Way to Happiness.
“You owe her our learning and literacy programs.
“You owe her a system of criminal reform based not on punishment, but the restoration of self-respect.
“You owe every addict a drug free life and every lost and hopeless soul the chance to discover something can be done about It. “But most of all, you owe every Roman citizen an opportunity to discover Dianetics and Scientology…”

The new Church of Scientology in Rome represents a milestone for the Scientology religion, which comprises more than 8,000 Churches, Missions and groups in 165 nations. As part of the continuing program to meet the increasing demand for Scientology services, new Churches have been established in Berlin, Johannesburg, London, Madrid, New York, San Francisco and elsewhere. This year alone, new Churches have opened in Malmo, Sweden, Dallas, Texas, and Nashville, Tennessee.

2009-10-23T16:31:00.000-07:00

David Miscavige Gives Overview of Past 25 Years of Scientology Expansion

This year's anniversary event for the International Association of Scientologists is a really special one as it marks 25 years since the Association was founded.

Listening to David Miscavige presenting the most significant highlights in that 25-year history made me realize just how far we've come. And it is pretty amazing.

I believe the two main reasons for the many successes over the past 25 years are L. Ron Hubbard's vision and technology and David Miscavige's leadership.

^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2009-10-20T16:07:00.000-07:00

Scientology books popular at international book fair

Frankfurt, Germany, October 2009—Bridge Publications dominates its category at the Frankfurt Book Fair opening Oct. 14, as it releases eight popular non-fiction titles by L. Ron Hubbard in 50 languages. Los Angeles-based Bridge Publications Inc. is the publishing arm of the Scientology religion and one of the world’s largest all-digital printers. In the announcement to the trade, Nicole Shell, Director of Public Relations of Bridge Publications, said this means the most popular basic Scientology books are now available to 90 percent of the global book market.

The numbers are impressive: The translations took five years and consisted of 103,350 pages containing 21.1 million words. A corps of 928 translators and 84 staff supervisors put in 139,580 hours so readers in 188 countries now have these books in their native languages, many for the first time.

L. Ron Hubbard is named in the Guinness World Records as Most Translated Author (71 languages). One of the most prolific writers of the 20th century, L. Ron Hubbard has appeared on the New York Times bestseller list with 19 separate titles. His works have sold 230 million copies in 150 countries including 22 million copies of Dianetics: the Modern Science of Mental Health alone. The Guinness Book of Records recognized Mr. Hubbard for the most published works by one author (1,084) in Oct. 2006, and in April 2009 for the most published audio books (185).

The eight newly translated Hubbard works are: Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health; Dianetics: The Original Thesis; Dianetics: The Evolution of a Science; Self Analysis; Scientology The Fundamentals of Thought; The Problems of Work: Scientology Applied to the Workaday World; Scientology: A New Slant on Life; and The Way to Happiness. They are now available in their original English and the following 50 languages: Afrikaans, Albanian, Arabic, Bengali, Brazilian Portuguese, Bulgarian, Chinese (simplified), Croatian, Czech, Danish, Dutch, Farsi, Filipino, Finnish, French, Georgian, German, Greek, Hebrew, Hindi, Hungarian, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Kazakh, Korean, Kyrgyz, Latvian, Lithuanian, Macedonian, Nepali, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Serbian, Sinhalese, Slovak, Slovenian, Spanish (Castilian), Spanish (Latin American), Swahili, Swedish, Taiwanese, Thai, Turkish, Ukrainian, Urdu and Vietnamese.

Those attending the Fair can find the Bridge Publications booth in Hall 8.0 at stand A978.

2009-09-01T19:29:00.000-07:00

David Miscavige Inspires Attainment of Ideal Scientology Organizations

Here's a simple explanation of something that is changing the Scientology religion and moving it into an era of its greatest expansion and service to the community and society. The full article is available at the Freedom Magazine web site:

“You are creating an island of friendliness, decency and succor in the sea of a violent world.... Sometime in the future the islands will become the sea.”
—L. Ron Hubbard

To meet the skyrocketing demand for Dianetics and Scientology throughout the world, and utilizing the technological advances of the 21st century, in 2004 Chairman of the Board Religious Technology Center, Mr. David Miscavige, launched the Ideal Org strategy to transform all Scientology Churches into Ideal Churches of Scientology.

It was the goal L. Ron Hubbard had set for Scientologists—to one day create Churches that were a physical embodiment of the policy and technology he had provided to help all beings attain spiritual freedom.

An Ideal Org (for “organization”) is a Church configured to provide the full services of the Scientology religion to its parishioners and to the community.

“Ideal” status encompasses both the physical facilities and the quantity and quality of the service to its parishioners and community. Such Churches house extensive public information multimedia displays describing all aspects of Dianetics and Scientology and its Founder, L. Ron Hubbard, as well as the Church’s social betterment and community outreach programs.>>

2009-08-31T19:03:00.000-07:00

A Renaissance for Scientology

David Miscavige Recovers Original L. Ron Hubbard
Scriptures and Embarks on the Most Expansive
Publishing Program in History

SCIENTOLOGY'S GOLDEN AGE OF KNOWLEDGE

What is now known throughout the world of Scientology as the "Golden Age of Knowledge" was inaugurated by Chairman of the Board Religious Technology Center (RTC), Mr. David Miscavige, in March 2005. It is the single most embracive RTC program in history and reflects literally hundreds of thousands of hours of scriptural verification and restoration. >>

2009-08-26T20:20:00.000-07:00

Freedom from drugs is the theme with 50 youth sworn in as Drug-Free Marshals at the Pakistani Independence Day celebration in Brussels.

The Church of Scientology International European Public Affairs Office partnered with the Pakistan Businessmen Forum of Belgium and the Institute for Peace and Development to help 50 Pakistani youth commit to live drug-free lives at this week’s celebration of the 62nd anniversary of Pakistani independence held in the Belgian capital.

More than 600 members of the Belgian Pakistani community looked on while the young people were sworn in as Drug-Free Marshals, taking an oath in the Urdu language to live drug-free lives and help their friends and families do the same.

The Church of Scientology’s presentation of its anti-drug campaign to the Belgian Pakistani community, including three short video clips that raised awareness of the devastating effects of marijuana, alcohol, and heroin, could not have been more timely. It addressed the very issue raised by last Tuesday’s announcement by Pakistan’s Ministry for Narcotics Control that there are an estimated 620,800 drug addicts in Pakistan, 77% of them heroin users.

In October 1947, just months after Pakistan gained its independence, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, first Governor-General of Pakistan, said, “My message to you all is of hope, courage and confidence. Let us mobilize all our resources in a systematic and organized way and tackle the grave issues that confront us with grim determination and discipline worthy of a great nation.” Today, one of those issues is drug abuse and addiction.

“In today’s world, independence means more than political sovereignty,” said Marc Bromberg, managing director of the European Public Affairs Office of the Church of Scientology International. “Freedom from drug abuse and addiction is a significant aspect of an independent life.”

For more information on the anti-drug programs of the Church of Scientology visit the Scientology web site.

2009-08-18T19:55:00.000-07:00

The Church of Scientology International is launching a series of testimonial videos on its official YouTube Channel called "Meet a Scientologist," which showcase the lives and careers of everyday Scientologists. YouTube users will be able to view 50 videos to start, with 100 more videos scheduled to follow in the upcoming months as part of the Church's continuing efforts to expand its presence in the world's largest online video community.

Meet A Scientologist YouTube Videos

The "Meet a Scientologist" videos, which were shot on location, focus on individual Scientologists who explain how the religion has helped them, whether by teaching effective communication skills, learning to be confident in their abilities, or generally improving their life. Videos highlight members of Scientology from all over the world and all kinds of professions, including doctors, educators, inventors, athletes, actors, musicians, students, photographers, business owners and more.

These new videos are based on one of the core principles of the Scientology religion. L. Ron Hubbard, founder of the Church of Scientology, discovered that understanding is composed of affinity, reality and communication. With the conviction that this applies to any aspect of life, the Church of Scientology seeks to increase understanding of Scientology and Scientologists by applying this principle to online video, while at the same time, providing information through personal stories.

A pioneer and leader in the online religious community, the Church of Scientology was the first religion to create its own official YouTube Video Channel in April 2008, with 82 broadcast-quality videos comprising nearly three hours of content in a unique video player. To date, it has been seen by over 2 million visitors. The Church of Scientology has also launched an online public information campaign with 30 and 60-second flash presentation conveying the essence of Scientology. These spots address the most fundamental questions people ask about life--questions for which Scientology has effective answers.

To watch the new "Meet a Scientologist" videos, visit the Scientology Video Channel on YouTube at video channel at http://www.youtube.com/ChurchofScientology.

2009-08-10T16:14:00.000-07:00

Scientology Volunteers in Catania, Italy Help Community Combat the Danger of Drugs

Church of Scientology in Sicily helps neighbors avoid the disastrous effects of drugs.

Volunteers from the Church of Scientology of Catania, Sicily, help protect their community from the disastrous effects of drugs.

They participate in a highly effective drug prevention campaign called the “Drug-Free Marshals.“ This is a program that originated in America in 1993, and has since become popular throughout the world. It is based on an American tradition of the 19th Century where civilians were sworn in as deputy marshals to help combat crime in the Wild West. Following that model, Drug-Free Marshals are sworn in to protect people—from drug abuse and addiction. They take a pledge to live drug-free lives and help their families and friends do the same.

In addition to the work they do on drug education, the Scientology volunteers, led by Public Affairs Director for the Church of Scientology of Catania, Ms. Itria Leone, organize syringe pick-up days, where they confiscate needles discarded by addicts at the side of roads, in the grass and under bushes, that could cause children playing in the area to contract HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C and other communicable diseases.

These drug education and prevention activities are one of the reasons Ms. Leone was awarded the 2009 Silver Chimera Award for the impact she has made on the community through her work as coordinator of the social reform programs of the Church of Scientology.

L. Ron Hubbard, founder of the Scientology religion, once said, “Save the child, and you save the nation,” and the volunteers of the Church of Scientology of Catania, who donate their time and efforts to helping the young people of their community, are committed to providing a safe future for the next generation.

For more information on the work Scientology churches are doing to handle the drug problem, visit the Scientology web site.

2009-06-29T18:27:00.000-07:00

Scientology Public Affairs Director receives international award

Scientologist recognized for outstanding contribution to the culture with the Silver Chimera Award for 2009

Scientology Public Affairs Director for the Church of Scientology of Catania, Italy, Ms. Itria Leone, was awarded the 2009 Silver Chimera Award for the impact she has made on the community through her work as coordinator of the Church’s social reform programs.

The 8th annual International Silver Chimera Awards ceremony was organized by dell’Arte Etrusca to raise awareness of social issues and recognize those who have distinguished themselves through contribution that improves the quality of life. With the theme, “Peace in the World,” the ceremony was held this year at the Museo Castello Ursino in Catania, in Sicily.

Ms. Leone, a native of Sicily, has been coordinating the social reform activities of the Church of Scientology of Catania since 2005. At a grassroots level, she has been working to educate children and teenagers on the effects of drugs, to help them make educated choices and avoid the tragedy of addiction. She also coordinates a chapter of Youth for Human Rights International, through which young people learn their rights and help educate their friends and community on the basic rights to which every individual is entitled.

In accepting her award, Ms. Leone acknowledged L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of the Scientology religion, for inspiring her to dedicate her life to helping others.

Other recipients of this year’s Silver Chimera Award were: in literature, Dr Sandro Distefano; in medicine, Dr. Ennio Roman; in civil service Dr. Domenico Pinzello, chief representative of the Minister of Interior for the province of Catania, for his many years of effectively combating organized crime, professor Giuseppe Adernò, who has distinguished himself an entrepreneur and cultural leader and Concetta Bufardeci, who has carried on a centuries-long family tradition of representing the country of Spain to Sicily.

2009-06-22T22:22:00.000-07:00

On the 2^nd Anniversary of the Golden Age of Knowledge: Doing the Basics is learning about life and knowledge of life is priceless. Many thanks to Mr. David Miscavige for all he has done to make this possible.
^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2009-06-22T22:17:00.000-07:00

The more I do the Basic books and lectures, the better life is. I have the greatest respect and admiration for Mr. David Miscavige for all his work and guidance in making the Basics available to all.
^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2008-09-26T16:53:00.000-07:00

^{A lot of Scientologists are active in fighting drug abuse.

In the late 1960s at the birth of the drug culture L. Ron Hubbard started major research into the effects of drugs on the mind and spiritual awareness. He had to.

Lots of products of the drug generation were walking into Scientology churches, and they were not responding to the usual techniques Ron had formulated to help people. Looking into why, he found this one common denominator. Drugs. At that time it was mainly street drugs.

Now pharmaceuticals, particularly psycho-active drugs compete with street drugs in the damage they cause. Literally millions of kids get put on Ritalin, for example, for manifesting the "disorder" of childhood enthusiasm (terribly distressing to parents and teachers who like things quiet and should not have had kids in or gone into a career where they have to take care of them).

Scientologists, understanding how destructive drugs are, swear off them personally. But they also take on the job of helping others learn the truth about drugs.

This article in Scientology Today about a New Yorker named Mehgan Fialkoff, is a case in point, but there are Scientologists all over the world who are taking on this work, distributing booklets, talking to people, giving lectures, speaking out.

The Foundation for a Drug Free World has terrific anti-drug ads. I really recommend them to anyone who wants to join in the real war against drugs which has to be taken to the trenches, on a one-on-one basis, to be effective.

Do you know a kid who's at risk? Send then to see the videos. They are also online on the Scientology web site and the Scientology YouTube channel.}^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2008-09-03T15:51:00.000-07:00

Thought I'd share this win, that I saw on the blog for the Scientology Mission of SOMA.

J.C. works in retail at a popular clothing store in San Francisco. She has just completed the Book Course on Scientology: The Fundamentals of Thought. Here is her success story :

"It is my job to control many staff members and play the retail game with them. I have to have good control and create the business. I watched one of the staff members playing the game wrong and I saw this with my own eyes. She was going in the wrong direction of that game. I needed to guide her in the right direction so I stopped her game and made it clear for her to see what the right game was and the goal she had to get to and that she had to create this to get that goal. She smiled and I let her do it on her own. She immediately succeeded and I saw a great improvement in her. I was proud of myself for having good control and creating a cycle of action. I was even more happy that she created it on her own."

So many wins, since David Miscavige released the Basic Scientology and Dianetics Books and Lectures!

^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2008-03-15T10:58:00.000-07:00

Scientology Video—Emotional Tone Scale

I spent some time watching the videos on the new Scientology video channel. I really loved the ones in the tab marked Beliefs and Practices.

One in particular is about the emotional tone scale. The tone scale is something I learned about when I first got involved in Scientology. It's very simple but I probably use it every day, one way or another. Being able to predict how someone will act or react because of their emotional tone is priceless. Knowing this has helped me get through so many things in life.

At work, if someone I'm working with is about to blow up, I can see it and I can defuse a crisis (sometimes even before it happens). In my relationships—with close friends, family members—I can't say everything is perfect, but I can say that I know how to repair any rift and get things back on the rails again.

It puts it in my hands how things are going to go in my life.

Then it's up to me.

But that's what Scientology is all about!

^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2008-03-14T19:56:00.000-07:00

Scientology Videos

Wow. I just spent an hour on the new Scientology web site and watched a dozen or so videos. I am so pumped. What a great way to let people know about Scientology!

^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

Is What's Good for the Parents What's Good for Kids?

2008-03-07T21:53:00.001-08:00

The bossy stage-mother of the introverted adolescent, the domineering businessman whose son drops out, the minister's profligate son––there are so many examples of kids disappointment their parents it almost becomes a cliché.

read more | digg story

Travolta in St. Pete for Sunscreen Film Festival

2008-03-05T20:34:00.001-08:00

Actor John Travolta and his wife, actress Kelly Preston, were in downtown St. Petersburg Tuesday night, promoting the launch of the third annual Sunscreen Film Festival at an invitation-only event.

read more | digg story

2008-02-25T10:01:00.000-08:00

New Web Site Lists Government Recognitions of Scientology Religion

Courts have determined that Scientology must be treated the same as other religions throughout Europe, including decisions concerning Scientology rendered by the European Court of Human Rights and the European Commission on Human Rights which establish binding precedent in all 46 European countries that have signed and ratified the European Convention on Human Rights.

In addition to the European Court of Human Rights and the European Commission on Human Rights decisions, Scientology has also been recognized as a religion through numerous judicial and administrative rulings in many European countries. Finally Scientology has been recognized and registered as a religion in many countries that have a religious registry.

2008-02-23T21:53:00.000-08:00

Scientology in society

Found this article on The New Statesman. It's by Ken Eckersley, a founding Scientologist who's been active in the religion just about since the start.

What I liked best is he expressed exactly how I feel about what we do in society, and why I volunteer my time on our social betterment programs.

Because the fundamentals upon which Scientology rests embrace all aspects of life, certain key principles can be broadly employed to better any condition. Scientologists use these principles in their daily lives, and I have found that their usage alone can often make the difference between success and failure.

One of these principles provides a means to separately view the components of life so that its many activities, often confused, can assume a new clarity. L. Ron Hubbard discovered that the basic drive behind all of life is “Survive!” This dynamic urge can be subdivided into eight parts so that each one can be more easily inspected and understood. These parts are called the eight dynamics, and by understanding each of them and their relationship, one to the other, a person is able to increase his or her survival on all of them.
What I found was that these dynamics describe one’s drive to survive for self, family, groups, mankind, all life, the physical universe, the spiritual universe and the Infinite or Supreme Being, and I have personally used Scientology to enhance my survival in all of these spheres.
My parents and other family have helped me in numerous ways and I have been able to return that help. For example, in his twenties, my brother was able to rid himself of 19 years of asthma through Dianetics procedures. My first wife, after several years of non-conception, was diagnosed as totally incapable of bearing children, yet later gave birth to our two beautiful girls as a direct result of Scientology spiritual counselling.'As to groups, without membership of the C of E church choir, my Boy Scout Troop, the Air Cadets, my teachers and fellow pupils in the various schools I attended and without my colleagues in the companies in which I worked - I could never have achieved my present 80 years of enjoyment of life, and my good health and high level of activity in the community. Over that period I have regularly studied Scientology, and still do every week. Without this, I know my life to date could never have been as full or as satisfying to both myself and others, and might also have been much shorter.
Then there is the broader group we call Mankind. My Scientology beliefs guide me in contributing in numerous ways to other people. I voluntarily help to run a Narconon drug rehabilitation and prevention education charity, with a high success rate in helping our students achieve complete abstinence for life. I also work with the Citizens Commission on Human Rights; the Volunteer Ministers community help group; the Foundation for a Drug Free Europe in Brussels; Criminon the criminal rehabilitation programme; and with The Way To Happiness Foundation distributing a common sense guide to better living. I also support my wife in her work with Applied Scholastics the revolutionary teaching system which is today helping so many of our youth to escape illiteracy. Groups all utilising the work of L. Ron Hubbard.

Without all this, I could never be as fulfilled as I am. You have only to see the light of comprehension in the eyes of a child or a young offender; you have only to witness the relief of an individual who is now off heroin and holding down a job, or the relief of one who has just escaped physical or emotional pain - to know the value of Mr Hubbard’s work.

Scientology in Texas

2007-11-13T14:30:00.001-08:00

Cool article in the University of Texas newspaper about the Scientology church in Austin.

read more | digg story

Katie Holmes — the Winner

2007-11-07T15:40:00.001-08:00

Katie Holmes finished the New York Marathon and joined husband Tom Cruise that same night at the premier of his new film, Lions for Lambs.

read more | digg story

2007-10-04T22:45:00.000-07:00

The Metanexus Institute is a very interesting organization whose purpose is: Promoting the constructive engagement of science, religion and the humanities in the communal pursuit of wisdom in order to address humanity’s most profound questions and challenges. It's an "international network of scientists, theologians, philosophers, historians and other scholars in the humanities, educators, artists, and religious leaders, fostering interdisciplinary, intercultural, and inter-religious collaboration in pursuit of new insights and a better future."

I'm all for that. There is certainly a need of greater cooperation and a respect for the religious beliefs of others in a technological age.

^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

In Remembrance of Ghandi

2007-10-04T19:37:00.001-07:00

On the 138th anniversary of the birth of Mahatma Gandhi, world leaders reflected on the message of this wise man and his affect on history. "Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh welcomed Tuesday as the first International Day of Non-Violence coinciding with Mahatma Gandhi's 138th birthday.

read more | digg story

Crime May Pay But at What Cost?

2007-10-01T15:41:00.001-07:00

How outrageous is it that 83-year-old Texas oil tycoon Oscar Wyatt can settle and buy his way out of facing the full consequences of his Iraq-created crimes? And what is the real impact of what he did in the lives and survival potential of the people of that country?

read more | digg story

Scientology and Dianetics Books

2007-09-28T14:31:00.001-07:00

Scientologists are taking advantage of the most important breakthrough in recent years for the Scientology religion: the publication of an entire new edition of all of L. Ron Hubbard's basic books on Scientology and Dianetics, and the simultaneous release of all the lectures accompanying these books

read more | digg story

Personal Account of Pisco Earthquake Relief from Two Returning Volunteer Mi

2007-09-28T14:30:00.001-07:00

On hearing of the earthquake in Pisco, Peru, two Scientology Volunteer Ministers from Los Angeles California, Eric and Gloria Anderson, decided to join the Scientology disaster relief team that was forming up in Peru.

read more | digg story

Google Founder to Run for President

2007-09-28T12:11:00.001-07:00

Recognizing the urgent need for fresh perspective and blood in the race for the presidency, and with an eye to what personalities have made the most impact on American culture in the past half-century, Dem leaders have approached Larry Page with the request that he enter the presidential race.

read more | digg story

Where Do You Stand on Bill Gates Philanthropic Projects?

2007-09-24T21:53:00.001-07:00

Whatever your opinions may by of the Microsoft empire, what Bill and Malinda Gates have done with their money is saving lives.An article this week on Newsweek covers their work in sub-Sahara Africa to contain AIDS and bring in the needed resources to end deaths from treatable/curable diseases which still plague these countries

read more | digg story

L. Ron Hubbard's Own Philosophy

2007-09-24T21:07:00.001-07:00

In an essay titled My Philosophy, L. Ron Hubbard once wrote: “I like to help others and count it as my greatest pleasure in life to see a person free himself from the shadows which darken his days.”

read more | digg story

Heroes Come in All Sizes

2007-09-21T10:29:00.001-07:00

The amazing story of a two year old child called 911 when her mother collapsed in their home.

read more | digg story

Should Children Trafficked to the UK be Allowed to Stay

2007-09-20T22:29:00.001-07:00

UNICEF's recommendation is that youngsters who have been brought to the UK to work as sex slaves or forced labor be allowed to stay in the country to recover from their ordeal. If it were not for the avarice, perversions or greed of UK citizens and residents who promote or condone this slavery, there would be no market for these children.

read more | digg story

Why Does Suicide Prevention Backfire?

2007-09-17T10:12:00.001-07:00

Unless one addresses the real cause, suicides will continue.No matter what measures you take, if a person is bent on suicide he/she will ultimately succeed. unless you help him/her change his/her mind.

read more | digg story

Scientology Basic Books and Lectures

2007-09-13T19:52:00.001-07:00

The materials of Dianetics and Scientology comprise the largest body of information ever assembled on the mind, spirit and life, rigorously refined and codified by L. Ron Hubbard.

read more | digg story

How Much Does Your Happiness Affect Your Child?

2007-09-12T09:28:00.001-07:00

You are the most important influence in your children's lives. They will do as well in life as you yourself feel happy and stable. But how to accomplish that in today's world?

read more | digg story

Clearwater Volunteers use the Scientology Handbook

2007-09-11T23:44:00.001-07:00

Volunteer Ministers have the advantage of having, studying and using the Scientology Handbook, based on the works of L. Ron Hubbard. It's actually a compendium of skills LRH developed for the various areas that trouble people most in life, such as being able to cope with their own and others' emotional reactions....

read more | digg story

Bart Wants You to be Happy

2007-09-11T16:26:00.001-07:00

Last night Nancy Cartwright gave a very moving presentation at the Alex Theater in Glendale on the subject of The Way to Happiness a common sense moral code written by L. Ron Hubbard.

read more | digg story

9/11 Six Years Later

2007-09-11T15:41:00.001-07:00

Six years after 9/11, I have no quarrel with the goat herd or farmer or oil well worker if Iraq and I feel nothing but the greatest sympathy for the people of this country.

read more | digg story

http://creativexpression.blogsome.com/2007/09/11/219/

2007-09-11T15:38:00.001-07:00

Maxfield Parrish was an enormously talented, visionary artist, whose beautiful paintings continue to inspire us today.He suffered from emotional and spiritual problems called, at that time, a "nervous breakdown."

read more | digg story

Dianetics and Emotion

2007-09-10T15:27:00.001-07:00

What's the relationship between life energy, emotion and the mind? That's the subject of the 2nd book of Dianetics -- Science of Survival by L. Ron Hubbard.

read more | digg story

Longterm Fatigue from Chemotherapy/Radiation

2007-09-10T10:39:00.001-07:00

I don’t know why it took a formal study to find out that there is longterm fatigue following breast cancer treatments. All you would have to do is hang out an an oncologist’s office and ask the women who are waiting for their follow-up checkups.

read more | digg story

Scientology’s Fair Tax Plot

2007-09-08T00:04:00.001-07:00

It has to make you wonder what the powers that be are worried about when it comes to Sen. Fred Thompson, R-Tenn who has announced is candidacy for President.Why else would The Republic and CBS News be suddenly “revealing” that Scientology was promoting National Sales Tax back in the 1990s.

read more | digg story

Real Help Available

2007-09-06T10:15:00.001-07:00

The question I have is why are some people so dedicated to preventing people from getting real help–help that doesn’t require a life-long prescription for some med that later turns out to cause violence, suicide or fatal heart of liver complications, gross weight problems and ad infinitum (but which flows a constant stream of cash into Big Pharma c

read more | digg story

Exploiting Kids to Make Pharma Money

2007-09-05T11:54:00.001-07:00

Once more our kids are about to be exploited, all to the greater good of psychiatry and Big Pharma.

read more | digg story

Ethiopian Crisis Demands Immediate Action

2007-09-05T11:18:00.001-07:00

Write to your congressman to report the humanitarian crisis in the Ogaden region of Ethiopia and demand pressure be put on those preventing aid to the people of this region. There are NGOs there trying to help but they are being prevented from saving lives.

read more | digg story

It Makes me Feel Sick!!

2007-09-05T09:33:00.001-07:00

Ever see something awful and it makes you actually feel physically ill? Ever wonder how the mind can turn emotional reaction into physical reaction?

read more | digg story

The Hidden Menace in your Head

2007-08-29T11:41:00.001-07:00

"I know I can't do this," or "He couldn't be interested in someone like me," or "Damn it, what's wrong with me? Why did I say that," and "I know I'll never get over this," "I'm such a dumb f**k".... Sound too familiar?

read more | digg story

2007-08-23T23:53:00.000-07:00

I hate to see the furor that has erupted resulting in the resignation of the Principal of the Khalil Gibran middle school.

Supporters of Almontaser, who wears a hijab, the traditional head covering, say she has been hounded and misinterpreted.

"Sadly and unfortunately, Debbie was singled out and attacked because she's a religious Muslim," said Rabbi Andy Bachman of Congregation Beth Elohim, who is part of an informal clergy advisory group for the school. "Everything in her career, from what we can see, has demonstrated she's a peaceful person who has been the center of dialogue."

Peruvian Disaster Relief

2007-08-21T21:48:00.001-07:00

With the help pouring in from all over the world for the victims of the Peru earthquake even the media are having to report something decent and helpful, for a change.

read more | digg story

What's Dianetics Up To in Harlem?

2007-08-21T00:08:00.001-07:00

Dianetics and Scientology are expanding in Harlem, as shown in this story.

read more | digg story

New Australian Law Won't Solve the Problem

2007-08-17T20:39:00.001-07:00

New Australian law, aimed at helping Aboriginal children,will further disrupt the family unit and degrade the culture. What is needed is work to restore the self-respect and cultural values of the community.

read more | digg story

Church of Scientology restores L. Ron Hubbard’s Phoenix home

2007-08-17T10:31:00.001-07:00

Nice article on the restoration of the L. Ron Hubbard house in Phoenix, AZ and some background on what LRH was doing when he was living there.

read more | digg story

The World Scene--Has it Really Changed?

2007-08-14T16:00:00.001-07:00

In 1950 L. Ron Hubbard described war as insanity on a broad social level. Has this really changed and is there any solution?

read more | digg story

Scientology -- Reaching Out to Help the Community

2007-08-14T15:19:00.001-07:00

If Scientology raises literacy, improves morality, helps people help one another, helps people to be more productive, why do people go so far afield to try to find controversy about it? Could it be some vested interests that profit off of people doing better in life?

read more | digg story

Suri Cruise -- Wow What a Face!

2007-08-13T21:42:00.001-07:00

What a great moment caught for posterity -- Suri Cruse at the Berlin zoo. The magic of discovering the world around you -- guess that never changes! (no matter who your parents are!)

read more | digg story

Dianetics -- 57 Years Old But Reads Like it was Written Yesterday

2007-08-13T21:01:00.001-07:00

New editions of Dianetics resonate as much today as it did 57 years ago. L. Ron Hubbard's discoveries apply as much today as they did then. Maybe even more...

read more | digg story

Scientology News: Harlem Church and Scientology Books

2007-08-13T20:22:00.001-07:00

Two things announced by David Miscavige last month that are changing things big time--the plans for the new Scientology church in Harlem and how that fits in with expansion of Scientology internationally, and the release of all of L. Ron Hubbard's books and their accompanying taped lectures for the first time in 16 languages.

read more | digg story

Will That Be a Bomb with Your McMuffin, Sir?

2007-08-13T13:55:00.001-07:00

Terrorism now ruled out in freak explosion at the new McDonalds restaurant in the trendy Park Street district of Kolkata. Scientology Volunteer Ministers helped police and civil defense agencies calm the scene where blast killed one and injured four Sunday morning.

read more | digg story

2007-08-10T18:02:00.000-07:00

A Chapter a Day Keeps the Blues Away?

I've been taking time every day to real LRH books (books by L. Ron Hubbard).

You can take the time to read the directions of how to use some new gadget, IPod, how to upload your videos on a site, how to take digital pictures. But what if it was just as simple, even easier, to read a manual about you -- about how you tick, why you sometimes do irrational things, why people can be really hard to be around, why that last relationship didn't work out quite as well as you thought it would....

That and a lot more is what you get from reading Scientology books.

I have to say it's quite brilliant what David Miscavige has done with the release of all the basic Scientology and Dianetics books and lectures. (David Miscavige is the one who announced the new release of all these books and lectures last month).

To really understand Scientology you have to read and understand these books and listen to these lectures. They are the record of Ron's research and they are what lets you in on everything he learned about how people tick. It's still such an exciting route to read about, even though I've been a Scientologist for many years.

Mr. Miscavige described what it took to get these lectures and books out in 16 languages (15 plus English). We're talking man hours like you wouldn't believe!

So, I'm on Dianetics, the Modern Science of Mental Health. And what a ride this is!

Frankly I'd forgotten what a great book it is, and this version (it has a really extensive glossary making it so easy to understand) is just gorgeous. But it's what's inside that really makes it special.

I would recommend this book to ANYONE.

^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

The Scientology Religion Blog: Reply to Anonymous Comments

2007-08-08T22:40:00.001-07:00

Why do people act so much worse when they are making anonymous comments than when they are talking to people in person?

read more | digg story

Californication — David Duchovny Personifies the New American Morality?

2007-08-08T11:56:00.001-07:00

David Duchovny's new show, premiering on the 13th of August, looks like a total winner, but does it idealize a lifestyle that sets people up to lose in life?

read more | digg story

2007-08-04T12:07:00.000-07:00

Sex and AIDS — Life and Death

It’s a pretty sorry state when we can be encouraged that “only” 29% of the pregnant women on one's country are HIV positive. But that’s the news today out of South Africa.

How many Americans could confront walking down a street in Johannesburg today, knowing that 3 out of every 10 pregnant women we see are living under a death sentence and passing it on to their unborn children.

As reported in 2005 almost half of the 1,200,000 orphans in South Africa lost their parents to AIDS.

The people of the African continent, living under the thread to AIDS have the lowest life expectancy on Earth.

Obviously, sexual abstinence is the most effective preventative measure for sexually transmitted HIV, but what will it take to shift sexual mores to such a degree that we can make a dent in the problem?

Last month a new set of video clips that are public service announcements were released at an international Scientology event in Clearwater Florida by David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board of Religious Technology Center. (Mr. Miscavige is the ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion).

These video clips illustrate the 21 precepts of The Way to Happiness, which is a common sense moral code, not restricted to any one religious belief, written by L. Ron Hubbard.

One of these clips illustrates the precept “Don’t be promiscuous.”

The video itself is a very funny representation of the personal backlash one can experience from violating this precept. It doesn't get into the question of sexually transmitted disease, but rather into the painful repercussions when the person you cheated on finds out. But its humor could be the very thing to use this as the opener for educating youth on sexual faithfulness being the most effective personal answer and social remedy for the AIDS pandemic.

This is not an advocacy against other campaigns to reduce the spread of AIDS through distribution of condoms. Whatever it takes to save lives, we need to do it. But this is one method that's foolproof, and it's easy for anyone to participate and spread the word.

Here's the video clip. It's less than a minute. Take the time to enjoy it. Then copy it onto your blog and spread the word.

Click here to view other Public Service Announcements

It is ironic that L. Ron Hubbard wrote The Way To Happiness in 1981, the year that the first cases of this new disease were reported, and a full year before scientists had given it a name. In this book, Mr. Hubbard wrote: “Unfaithfulness on the part of a sexual partner can heavily reduce one’s survival,“ and he goes on to say, “For a very brief period, it was said that sexual diseases were all under control. This is not now the case, if it ever was. Incurable strains of such diseases now exist,” and “The urge of the moment can become the sorrow of a lifetime.”

If this one precept were really implemented, we could cut back the spread of HIV/AIDS enormously in one generation.

Are You Worth a Bit of Effort?

2007-07-30T15:10:00.001-07:00

If, by dedicating a few weeks of study, you could greatly increase your understanding of yourself, your past, the people you know and people in general, wouldn't you put the time in to checking it out?

read more | digg story

Random Acts of Kindness

2007-06-28T20:33:00.001-07:00

You know how great it feels to help someone? What if you knew that by doing so you were not just helping them feel good for a little while but you were actually giving them help that would continue to help them from here on out and *really* help them in a major way?

read more | digg story

2007-06-27T22:31:00.001-07:00

^{Keith Code is 30-year professional motorcycle racing instructor and Ambassador for the Foundation for a Drug Free World, a nonprofit organization based in Los Angeles, California. The Foundation was established in October 2006 to meet the growing demand for the Say No to Drugs, Say Yes to Life program, which has been conducted for more than 20 years by members of Scientology churches in collaboration with other volunteer groups, educational institutions and government agencies. For further information on FDFW and their drug education resources, visit http://www.drugfreeworld.org.}^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

2007-06-27T18:07:00.000-07:00

I got taken in (I hope) yesterday by the satire on the soon-to-be released new disorder called Political Attention Deficit Disorder (PADD) that some 80% of us in the US are supposed to be suffering from.

The reason I got taken in is that the disorders in the current version of the DSM IV (the psych bible for transforming normal behavior into profit-producing disorders for which they can charge hundreds an hour to diagnose while simultaneously getting perks and kickbacks from Big Pharma for prescribing the latest designer "med").

You can blam me for being taken in, though. The "actual" disorders in the DSM IV and others that are being discussed (like "Internet addiction") just prove to me that someone better find some real work for the DSM psychs to do before they vote that "life" is a disorder.

PS. I wish that were just a joke. But when they put 6-month-old babies on Ritalin for ADD/ADHD it's no laughing matter. And yes, Virginia, they ARE doing that even as you read this posting.

^{"You may have been taught that the mind is a very difficult thing to know about. This is the first principle of Scientology: It is possible to know about the mind, the spirit and life."—L. Ron Hubbard}

Getting Married Again...125 Years Later--A Different Kind of Second Life

2007-06-13T15:28:00.001-07:00

Have you ever met someone you felt sure you knew before, but you never ran into him or her this lifetime? Do you believe that love, hate or other emotions can span space and time?

read more | digg story

Eventful: Scientology International Volunteer Ministers

2007-06-08T13:19:00.001-07:00

The VM tent is coming to Worcester, Massachusetts. A great way to find out about Scientology and get some help at the same time.

read more | digg story

Kolkata Nurses Come to Realize Something Can be Done About It

2007-06-08T09:11:00.001-07:00

It can be such a frustrating task to care for sick and injured people when you can't really relieve their suffering. Nursing students in India are learning Scientology assists to help them cope with this.

read more | digg story

21st Century Religion

THE BASICS BOOKS AND LECTURES

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

A 21st Century Religion in the Age of Multimedia

Ribbon Falls on Australia'sFirst Ideal Church of Scientology

L. RON HUBBARD’S BOOKS NOW AVAILABLE IN LENDING LIBRARIES ACROSS 192 LANDS

Official Church of Scientology: David Miscavige - Creating a New Era of Expansion

Golden Era Productions - A 21st Century Religion in the Age of Multimedia

Is Man a spirit?

What was the real reason L. Ron Hubbard decided to found a religion?

Scientology in the Next Decade of the 21st Century

The history of Scientology

Scientology Churches and Missions Celebrate 60th Anniversary of Dianetics the Modern Science of Mental Health

David Miscavige Spoke at Los Angeles Church Grand Opening

LA Org—Grand Opening Church of Scientology of Los Angeles

Scientology Volunteers Gather Signatures on Human Rights Petitions in 21 Countries

Scientology Relief Ship to Haiti

Scientologist Plans Cross-Country Ultra Marathon to Promote Moral Values

Scientology Volunteer Ministers Restore Hope in the Land of Dreams

New Church of Scientology Opens Doors to Rome

David Miscavige Gives Overview of Past 25 Years of Scientology Expansion

David Miscavige Inspires Attainment of Ideal Scientology Organizations

A Renaissance for Scientology

David Miscavige Recovers Original L. Ron HubbardScriptures and Embarks on the Most ExpansivePublishing Program in History

Scientology Volunteers in Catania, Italy Help Community Combat the Danger of Drugs

Scientology Video—Emotional Tone Scale

Scientology Videos

Is What's Good for the Parents What's Good for Kids?

Travolta in St. Pete for Sunscreen Film Festival

New Web Site Lists Government Recognitions of Scientology Religion

Scientology in society

Scientology in Texas

Katie Holmes — the Winner

In Remembrance of Ghandi

Crime May Pay But at What Cost?

Scientology and Dianetics Books

Personal Account of Pisco Earthquake Relief from Two Returning Volunteer Mi

Google Founder to Run for President

Where Do You Stand on Bill Gates Philanthropic Projects?

L. Ron Hubbard's Own Philosophy

Heroes Come in All Sizes

Should Children Trafficked to the UK be Allowed to Stay

Why Does Suicide Prevention Backfire?

Scientology Basic Books and Lectures

How Much Does Your Happiness Affect Your Child?

Clearwater Volunteers use the Scientology Handbook

Bart Wants You to be Happy

9/11 Six Years Later

http://creativexpression.blogsome.com/2007/09/11/219/

Dianetics and Emotion

Longterm Fatigue from Chemotherapy/Radiation

Scientology’s Fair Tax Plot

Real Help Available

Exploiting Kids to Make Pharma Money

Ethiopian Crisis Demands Immediate Action

It Makes me Feel Sick!!

The Hidden Menace in your Head

Peruvian Disaster Relief

What's Dianetics Up To in Harlem?

New Australian Law Won't Solve the Problem

Church of Scientology restores L. Ron Hubbard’s Phoenix home

The World Scene--Has it Really Changed?

Scientology -- Reaching Out to Help the Community

Suri Cruise -- Wow What a Face!

Dianetics -- 57 Years Old But Reads Like it was Written Yesterday

Scientology News: Harlem Church and Scientology Books

Will That Be a Bomb with Your McMuffin, Sir?

A Chapter a Day Keeps the Blues Away?

The Scientology Religion Blog: Reply to Anonymous Comments

Californication — David Duchovny Personifies the New American Morality?

Sex and AIDS — Life and Death

Are You Worth a Bit of Effort?

Random Acts of Kindness

Getting Married Again...125 Years Later--A Different Kind of Second Life

Eventful: Scientology International Volunteer Ministers

A 21^st Century Religion in the Age of Multimedia

Ribbon Falls on Australia's
First Ideal Church of Scientology

David Miscavige Recovers Original L. Ron Hubbard
Scriptures and Embarks on the Most Expansive
Publishing Program in History