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Church of Scientology Melbourne?the First Ideal Scientology Church Beneath the Southern Cross

Church of Scientology Melbourne—the First Ideal Scientology Church Beneath the Southern Cross











Church of Scientology Melbourne—the First Ideal Scientology Church Beneath the Southern Cross


Melbourne, Australia (Vocus/PRWEB) January 31, 2011

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 1st 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.

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Scientology Opens Record Number of New Churches Around the World in 2010

Scientology Opens Record Number of New Churches Around the World in 2010











On April 24th, the new Ideal Org of Los Angeles opened its doors


Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) January 28, 2011

In 2010, major Churches of Scientology opened across Europe, North America and Africa.

These new Churches are the realization of Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard’s vision, where he prescribed the standard and model for all Churches of Scientology to aspire to in becoming what he called an Ideal Organization (Org). Ideal Orgs are built to provide all services of the Scientology religion while also serving as a home for the community at large for the cooperative advancement of the underprivileged and forsaken of every ethnic and denomination. Ideal Orgs are made possible by the contributions of Scientology parishioners dedicated to uplifting their communities and helping their fellow man.

New Church Grand Openings are attended by thousands of parishioners, guests and dignitaries from across the social spectrum.


    The first new Ideal Org opened in 2010 was the Brussels branch of the Churches of Scientology for Europe, on the 23rd of January. Thousands of guests were on hand from across Europe to cut the ribbon on an 88,000-square-foot historic structure along Boulevard de Waterloo. Among the distinguished guests was the Honorable Hugo Coveliers, Senator in the Belgian Parliament, who addressed those gathered: “This new Church in the capital city of Europe stands as a beautiful testament to your help, and you can be certain of my continued support. You care for people, and this Church is such an example of this attitude.” Since opening, dignitaries from across the European community have visited the Church and toured its massive Public Information Center, comprising hundreds of multimedia presentations illustrating Scientology beliefs (19), the life and legacy of Founder L. Ron Hubbard, and the full array of Church-sponsored social betterment and community outreach programs. (Watch the video: Churches of Scientology for Europe Grand Opening.)

    One week later, on the 30th of January, Scientologists and their guests assembled in Quebec, at the heart of the Nouvo Saint-Roch district to open a new Ideal Org for that city. Many dignitaries participated in the dedication, including the Honorable Pamela Appelt, from the International Center for Human Rights and Democratic Development, who declared: “It has been my privilege to work alongside the Church of Scientology for 25 years. Whatever the issue, you have answers that are useful to anyone in public service.” (Watch the video: Church of Scientology of Quebec Grand Opening.)

    The following week, on the 6th of February, came the Grand Opening of the new Church of Scientology and Celebrity Centre of Las Vegas. Thousands of Scientologists and community leaders gathered to dedicate the new Ideal Org designed to serve those who work in the entertainment capital of the world. Those taking the podium for the ceremony included United States Congresswoman Shelley Berkley and Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman, who stated: “As the Mayor of the fastest-growing city, I look forward to partnering with you, as the fastest-growing religion.” (Watch the video: Church of Scientology and Celebrity Centre of Las Vegas Grand Opening.)

    On the 26th of March, a new Scientology Life Improvement Centre opened in Johannesburg, South Africa, directly adjacent to the nation’s university. Joining Scientologists for the dedication ceremony were university students, community leaders and government officials. The welcoming address was delivered by Ms. Phumzile Zuma, daughter of the nation’s president. (Watch the video: Johannesburg Scientology Life Improvement Centre Grand Opening.)

    On April 24th, the new Ideal Org of Los Angeles opened its doors. More than 6,000 parishioners and guests celebrated the opening of this Church which stands at the intersection of Sunset Boulevard and L. Ron Hubbard Way. Formally welcoming the Church were a host of local and state officials, including State Assembly Member Karen Bass and Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca, who spoke to the Church’s social betterment programs in his address: “Your drug education means everything to the safety of our schools and neighborhoods. That is why we trained a corps of our own deputies in the use of your unbeatable program. So I want to thank each and every one of you for everything you do in helping me do my job.” (Watch the video:Church of Scientology of Los Angeles Grand Opening.)

    On the 10th of July, the National Scientology Organization opened in Mexico City. More than 7,000 Scientologists and guests attended the dedication of this first Scientology Ideal Org in Latin America, in a fully restored cultural landmark that stands near Mexico’s National Fine Arts Palace and the Supreme Court. Here, too, officials took the opportunity to recognize the Church and its social betterment programs. Ms. Laura Chapa from the Federal Ministry of Education addressed the gathering by stating: “I believe that with the opening of this new Organization, leaders of all sectors of society will have the same realization I had: that you have the solution. And so I also believe that what will come from this new Organization is a turning point for our nation.” (Watch the video: National Scientology Organization for Mexico Grand Opening.)

    On the 17th of July, an assemblage of 4,200 parishioners and guests filled the streets to inaugurate the new Church of Scientology of Pasadena. The heritage of the 58,000-square-foot historic Victorian landmark is preserved in the fully restored structure, including the classic four-story atrium galleria, and the interior Chapel featuring Tiffany-inspired stained glass windows as a backdrop for Scientology religious services and community gatherings. Pasadena Mayor Bill Bogaard was among the notable guests who participated in the dedication ceremonies: “With this beautifully restored structure in Old Pasadena, the Church of Scientology represents not only a growing religion, but an important factor in the future of this city.” (Watch the video: Church of Scientology of Pasadena Grand Opening.)

    On the 24th of July, parishioners and their guests congregated just blocks from the Seattle Center and Space Needle for the opening of the new Church of Scientology of Washington State. Among those welcoming the new Church was State Supreme Court Justice Richard Sanders, with whom the Church has partnered in the field of human rights for 35 years: “There is nothing more important in life than being true to yourself and standing up for what you believe. That is freedom, and that is what makes life worth living. And that, to me, is what you represent.” (Watch the video: Church of Scientology of Washington State Grand Opening.)
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In the last five years, the implementation of Mr. Hubbard’s vision for Ideal Orgs has resulted in 22 new Churches. An additional 60 buildings are currently under construction or renovation to house Ideal Orgs scheduled to open over the next two years.

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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.

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Church of Scientology International Sponsors Workshop on Human Rights in Bulgaria

Church of Scientology International Sponsors Workshop on Human Rights in Bulgaria










Brussels (PRWEB) June 7, 2006

With Bulgaria’s January 2007 entry into the European Union approaching, a “Government & Religion” workshop was hosted by the Brussels-based Church of Scientology International European Public Affairs and Human Rights Office, concentrated on what is needed for Bulgaria to comply with European human rights standards.

In joining the EU, Bulgaria is expected to raise social standards to the level of other member nations. Prime among the concerns about Bulgaria have been the independence of its justice system and organized crime and corruption in the country. However, there are also human rights issues which must be addressed, such as freedom of expression, religious freedom, discrimination against national and ethnic minorities, and conditions in prisons and other institutions. These issues were the focus of this conference.

Mr. Krassimir Kanev, Chairman of the Bulgarian Helsinki Committee, opened the workshop with a presentation titled Human Rights in Bulgaria in the eve of the EU Accession. Mr. Kanev, who is also a member of the Executive Committee of the International Helsinki Federation for Human Rights, gave examples of human rights violations in Bulgaria. He stated that the process of accession to the European Union has contributed to some improvements, but stressed that the condition of patients in Bulgarian mental health institution remains an urgent problem to address, with reports of harsh conditions and arbitrary enforced commitment.

Mr. Petar Gramatikov, Member of the Board of the Help the Needy Foundation and Archdeacon of the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, presented a paper titled What difference does the United Nations and the European Union make in my Country and Region? which addressed human rights and religious freedom in the country. As part of this, he urged the Bulgarian Orthodox Church to revitalize inter-church relations and renew its membership in the World Council of Churches.

Co-organized by the Church of Scientology International and the European Foundation for Human Rights and Tolerance, this was the second in a series of workshops on the relationship between government and religion in Europe, and was attended by representatives of European institutions and Brussels-based diplomats from European and non-European countries concerned about safeguarding human rights and religious liberty in the European Union.

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Communities Come Together at Scientology Headquarters at Saint Hill

Communities Come Together at Scientology Headquarters at Saint Hill










(PRWEB) August 11, 2004

People of many different religions and backgrounds from around the UK and Europe congregated at Saint Hill to attend a conference entitled, “Creating Respect and Understanding in a Multi-Cultural Society,”in honor of L. Ron Hubbard’s contributions to solving the problems of society.

The conference was sponsored by the Council for Human Rights and Religious Freedom, Punjabi Women’s Social and Cultural Society UK, the institute on Religion and Public Policy, Sachkhand Nanak Dham International, World Council of Jain Academies, Association for British Muslims, the L. Ron Hubbard Foundation and the Church of Scientology. There were religious representatives from Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, Sikhism, and Scientology.

East Grinstead’s Mayor, Cllr Christine Mainstone, opened the conference which took place in Saint Hill Manor’s famous “Monkey Room,” focused on bringing different religions and community groups together to work out practical ways to tackle common social problems.

The end result was an overwhelming agreement to build on the positive actions that were already ongoing and to develop these to a higher level. “Setting a good example”, both at individual and group level, was emphasised as an important way to go forward. Daoud Rosser-Owen, President of the Association of British Muslims, who attended both the conference and is involved in the “Religions Working Together”initiative said, “I was very pleased with the positive response from the attendees. Working together on very simple matters, such as improving conditions in the community….I am happy to work with the Church of Scientology on these matters and appreciate that they have taken the time to put this, and other, initiatives together.”

During the event, the latest in a series of informational brochures was released. This brochure summarises the work of humanitarian L. Ron Hubbard, who lived at Saint Hill Manor between 1959 and 1967. The brochure is entitled, “Shaping the 21st Century with solutions for a better world.”

Dr. Iftikhar Ayaz, OBE, Honorary Consul for Tuvalu and the representative of the Pacific Islands in a United Nations Peace Forum, commented, “the best outcome was that all the religions and non-religious organisations agreed to form a collective organisation in order to pursue the ideas for creating interfaith and intercultural and inter-ethnic harmony in the British society…”

For more information on the L. Ron Hubbard Foundation, visit http://www.epolitix.com/EN/Forums/Hubbard+Foundation/4E2F6D5E-95AA-4FE3-AC0B-8400FA471D7F.htm


















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Church of Scientology Opens New Church in the Heart of Moscow

Church of Scientology Opens New Church in the Heart of Moscow











Russian government, religious and human rights dignitaries joined more than 2,000 Scientologists to mark the grand opening of the Russian Federation’s premier Church of Scientology of Moscow.

Moscow, Russia (Vocus/PRWEB) March 08, 2011

Commemorating this new Scientology Church, Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board Religious Technology Center and ecclesiastical leader of the religion, declared: “It has been said that Russia cannot be understood with the intellect, that it cannot be measured by any common standard and that it can only be believed in. Well, let Russia now believe this: The Church that now stands in Moscow possesses a technology that is all but synonymous with the human spirit. It is a technology to bring forth the goodness in people and the greatness they are destined to achieve. It is a technology that is both kind and strong. It is a technology for freedom and wisdom.”

Scientology established its first Church in the Russian Federation in 1993 after the fall of communism and has seen phenomenal growth in the years since. It has been recognized as a leading voice in the fight for universal human rights.

The new Moscow Church not only meets the needs of its growing congregation of Scientologists, but also serves as the center for all faiths to unite for community betterment and social improvement in the name of religious freedom.

The Church of Scientology of Moscow further coordinates the Church’s many humanitarian initiatives. The 65,000-square-foot building houses a Public Information Display presenting an introduction to all Church-sponsored programs, including those dedicated to drug education, literacy and human rights. The new Church also provides public conference rooms and an auditorium for religious community functions.

The Moscow Church already stands at the forefront of Russia’s greater human rights movement. It works in coordination with the internationally renowned Moscow Helsinki Group, founded by Ms. Lyudmila Alexeyeva. Ms. Alexeyeva is one of the original Soviet era dissidents to decry communist oppression. She is also the recipient of the European Parliament’s prestigious Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought. On the occasion of the Moscow Church opening, Ms. Alexeyeva stated: “For me, as a human rights advocate, all religions are equal in their rights. Your Church is particularly devoted to defending the freedom of belief not only for its own parishioners but for all religious people of any denomination.”

The Church’s religious freedom victories are now legend. Scientology’s landmark decisions before the European Court of Human Rights set the standard for religious rights in all 47 member states. In recognition of what this new Church of Scientology represents to religious freedom, Mr. Boris Nikolayevich Panteleyev from the Russian Federation’s Public Chamber stated: “The precedents you have set in the European Court of Human Rights regarding your Church are very important for all those who stand for religious freedom. Today all lawyers, religious scholars, human rights advocates and representatives of other faiths carefully study these texts, seeing in them hope for justice and protection from discrimination in our own land.”

Mr. Panteleyev, who presented the Church with a recognition commemorating its grand opening, continued, saying: “Scientologists work to see that all have the right to thought, to practice religion and to rejoice. You work to see that all people have the right to assemble, the right to establish and support their own churches and organizations; that they have the freedom to think for themselves and to the expression of their thoughts and ideas. These freedoms are the very manifestation of the individual spirit. So it is important that we rejoice today, for this is a glorious day in the name of freedom for all of Russia.”

Scientology’s Drug Free World initiative is but one of the Church programs now adopted by citizens of the Russian Federation. Among its foremost advocates is Dr. Victor Ivanovich Cherepkov, two-term State Duma Deputy, who said: “The drug industry has taken its toll on Russians for years. Until recently we had no solution that could prevent the problem. Your drug education is well recognized in Russia. We are already using your literature and your methods in the fight against drugs. In fact, these are widely disseminated throughout Russia. And it’s spreading for one reason only: it simply is working everywhere and anywhere.”

Dr. Cherepkov went on to say, “In the effectiveness of your anti-drug campaign, I see the wisdom of L. Ron Hubbard—the great teacher and philosopher. For he unlocked the human mind and human problems with knowledge, to free us from the wickedness of existence in the name of creation, perfection and kindness.”

With the new Church of Scientology of Moscow, so begins the next historic chapter for Scientology. It is a chapter that not only signifies a renaissance for the religion itself, but a new era for religious and human rights in Russia.

Under the guidance of Mr. David Miscavige, the ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, the Church is undergoing an era of explosive growth. The opening of the Moscow Church is the second since the beginning of 2011, and the 20th to be christened in cultural centers world over, in just the last 5 years, including:


     the Church of Scientology of Melbourne, occupying a landmark estate in the cultural capital of Australia;
     the National Scientology Organization of Mexico, at the historic center of the nation’s capital, Mexico City;
     the Church of Scientology of Los Angeles, serving the largest congregation of Scientologists on Earth;
     the Church of Scientology of Las Vegas, in the fastest growing city in America;
     the Church of Scientology of Québec, in the cultural heart of French Canada;
     the Churches of Scientology of Europe, Brussels Branch, at the administrative center of the European continent;
     the Founding Church of Scientology of Washington, DC, which stands on “Church Row,” just blocks from the White House;
     the Church of Scientology of Italy, at the historic crossroads of Western civilization in Rome;
     the Church of Scientology of Nashville, in the songwriting capital of the world and Music City, USA;
     the Church of Scientology of Malmö, a landmark Church for Sweden and Scandinavia;
     the Church of Scientology of Berlin, a beacon of spiritual freedom near the Brandenburg Gate;
     the Church of Scientology of London, at the epicenter of the English-speaking world;
     the Church of Scientology of New York, on the pulse of the city, just off Times Square;
     and the National Church of Scientology of Spain, located in Madrid’s historic Neighborhood of Letters.

There are currently another 60 major Scientology Churches in design, planning or construction around the world. (For the complete list of new Scientology Churches, see David Miscavige: At the Helm in the Era of Expansion)

This same period of unparalleled expansion also saw:

     The restoration of the Church’s landmark religious retreat at its spiritual headquarters in Florida; (See The Landmark Fort Harrison Fully Restored)
     The establishment of the largest all-digital, print-on-demand publishing houses in the world to facilitate the broad dissemination of Scientology Scripture; (See Bringing Scientology to the World: World’s Largest All-Digital Publishers)
     And to forward its humanitarian programs, the opening of the Church’s new International Dissemination and Distribution Center. (See Church of Scientology Flips the Switch on 185,000-Square-Foot Dissemination and Distribution Center)

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 the religion has expanded to more than 9,000 Churches, Missions and affiliated groups, with millions of members in 165 countries.

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New Church of Scientology Grand Opening In Washington, DC

New Church of Scientology Grand Opening In Washington, DC











Three thousand Scientologists and guests attended the dedication and opening of the new Founding Church of Scientology of Washington, DC, October 31, 2009. The ribbon was pulled by Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board of Religious Technology Center


Washington, DC (PRWEB) November 9, 2009

On Saturday, October 31, the Founding Church of Scientology of Washington, DC, opened its new premises six blocks from the White House and minutes from Capitol Mall. Attended by nearly 3,000 Scientologists and guests, the Church was dedicated by Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board of Religious Technology Center and ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion.

The building, over 49,000 square feet, represents the Church of Scientology’s largest presence ever in the nation’s capital, a presence that dates back to the 1955 establishment of the Founding Church of Scientology in the District by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard–an occasion considered a milestone in the establishment of Scientology as the only major religion founded in the 20th century, a religion that has since become the fastest-growing religion in the world.

Mr. Miscavige and other speakers gave special praise to the millions of Scientologists world over who have given of their time and effort to make the Church’s anti-drug education initiative the largest non-governmental program of its kind and the Church’s human rights education program the largest on earth. They also praised the work of over 195,000 registered Scientology Volunteer Ministers trained to respond in times of disaster.

In expressing the importance of a prominent Scientology Church in the nation’s capitol Mr. Miscavige stated:

“In a word, this Church is the sum total of all our history and all LRH envisioned when serving as our first Executive Director.

“This is also the kind of Church he envisioned when authoring our programs and campaigns–in anticipation of a day when turmoil knocks out the props and the whole social veneer collapses…”

“Which, of course, is exactly what happened–and thus what prompted our Wake-up Call after 9/11…wherein our history intersects with the history of this nation.”

Yet the significance of a major Church of Scientology in Washington, DC, runs much deeper as Mr. Miscavige made clear:

“You are looking at a living embodiment of the freedom and equality that originally inspired this nation because, yes, this Church stands for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. And, yes, it stands here today because of the freedom on which this nation was built–the freedom of religion. For it was here, in this nation’s capital, that we fought for and won our recognition.”

And in the words of Congressman Brad Sherman of California’s 27th District in his address to the gathering:

“I have worked diligently and continuously to express my views, and I believe the views of the entire Congress, that all countries should treat all religions equally and provide true freedom of religion for everyone.”

Congressman Sherman praised the Church’s efforts in raising awareness of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and stated that the battle for human rights includes bringing human rights awareness to all people.

“That is why the efforts of many churches and religious organizations to focus on human rights issues are so important.”

Others speaking and participating in the dedication of the new Scientology Church were Ms. Addie Richburg, President and Chairman of the Board of the National Alliance of Faith and Justice; Ms. Diane Rothe-Smith, Executive Director of the National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD); and Mr. Mike Silverstein, President of the Dupont Circle Advisory Neighborhood Association who also represented District of Columbia Mayor Adrian M. Fenty.

Rev. Sylvia Stanard, Director of Public Affairs for the Founding Church, invited all inside to tour the new Church, which includes numerous multimedia presentations in its Public Information Center, describing fundamentals of the Scientology religion, the Church’s worldwide humanitarian and social betterment programs, and the life and legacy of L. Ron Hubbard. As in any Church of Scientology, the doors are always open for people to walk in and find out for themselves.

Washington, DC, played a pivotal role in the life of the Founder of the Scientology religion. At age 13, as America’s youngest Eagle Scout, L. Ron Hubbard traveled cross-country to meet President Calvin Coolidge. As a student at George Washington University in the early 1930s, Mr. Hubbard learned the scientific methodology he later applied to unlocking the riddle of the human mind and life. After World War II, he tested Dianetics techniques on numerous cases at Saint Elizabeth’s Hospital and wrote the first manuscript of his discoveries in Dianetics: The Original Thesis. In 1955, he established the Founding Church and became its Executive Director.

The Founding Church of Scientology of Washington, DC, 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 demand for Scientology services, new Churches have been established in Berlin, Johannesburg, London, Madrid, New York and San Francisco. Earlier this year, new Churches opened in Malmo, Sweden; Dallas, Texas; Nashville, Tennessee and October 24, in Rome–five new landmark Scientology Churches opened newly in the last six months.

For additional photos and video footage, contact mediarelations(at)scientology.net

Press Contact:

Karin Pouw

323-960-3500

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Scientology Religious Horse Ceremony Illegally Harassed by Protesters

A legitimate Scientology horse-related religious ceremony was taking place and we attended just to illegally disrupt it. This violated their freedom of religion AND freedom to assemble. The Scientologists were planning to sacrifice the horse and read it’s entrails. You can see the lady on the horse already wearing the stainproof ceremonial dress. We were tipped off by a spy inside Scientology who told us about this IAS horse related event so thanks for making this possible mystery person! Protester AnonOrange and I take two entire minutes to clear the street (L. Ron Hubbard Way) of Scientologists. This is compared with an internal cult video of how brave they are. More at www.angrygaypope.com ================================ Did they have a permit for that horse? I hope someone will check with animal services about this at http
Video Rating: 4 / 5

Scientology Magazine Psychiatry Article Earns Religion Communicators Council Award

Freedom Magazine, a Church of Scientology International publication has been recognized by the Religion Communicators Council (RCC) with the 2009 DeRose-Hinkhouse Memorial Awards Certificate of Merit for writing on the web. The award went to Psychiatric Screening: Destroying Lives for Profit, for its dispassionate look at the facts and figures of this psychiatric experiment and its casualties-our children.

The award-winning article details the case of Aliah Gleason, who was taken from school without her parents’ consent and placed in Austin State Hospital. Aliah was hospitalized simply because her parents refused to place their 11-year-old daughter on dangerous psychiatric drugs that the FDA warns “increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior (suicidality) in children and adolescents.” And Aliah was prescribed these drugs based only on her answers to the questions in a school-based psychiatric screening program.

The Freedom feature traces the background of this experiment in human behavior, finding that such programs have ties to multibillion-dollar interests that will profit enormously from their implementation.

Purporting to prevent child suicide, screening programs factually increase its risk, according to Freedom Magazine. The article cites a Duke University study that found that surveys can influence behavior and conduct. Thus, the article notes, “…screening programs have made some health practitioners nervous that peoples’ problems will worsen by being pumped with questions about depression and thoughts of suicide.”

The Religion Communicators Council is an interfaith association of religion communicators at work in print and electronic communication, marketing and in public relations. The DeRose-Hinkhouse Memorial Awards are presented annually to members of the RCC who demonstrate excellence in religion communications and public relations.

Premised on the principles of human rights, Freedom Magazine has been a catalyst for groundbreaking reforms in the public interest and has been broadly hailed as a leading voice for human rights and civil liberties for more than 40 years. Freedom Magazine is published by the Church of Scientology International. Scientology churches publish 20 local and regional editions of the magazine.

To read the award-winning article and for more information on Freedom Magazine, visit its web site at www.freedommag.org or the official Scientology site at www.scientology.org.

Linda Wieland writes for the Scientology Press Office in Los Angeles, CA.

Article from articlesbase.com

Churches of Scientology Surgut, Moscow and Nizhnekamsk Successfully Fight Anti-Religious Extremism in Russia

Churches of Scientology Surgut, Moscow and Nizhnekamsk Successfully Fight Anti-Religious Extremism in Russia














Los Angeles, CA (Vocus) April 22, 2010

In March 2010, a milestone judgment of the European Court of Human Rights in the case of religious associations of the Church of Scientology in Surgut (application #76836/01) and Nizhnekamsk (application #32782/03) became final.

This judgment follows a 2007 ruling of the same court in favor of the Church of Scientology Moscow, requiring the Russian government to register the church as a religious organization (application #18147/02).

The judgment of the European Court — dated October 1, 2009, final since March 8, 2010 – found a violation of rights of the applicants by the Russian Federation, in particular, violation of the provisions of Article 9 of the Convention (freedom of thought, conscience and religion) in the light of Article 11 (freedom of assembly and association).

The court found that “the restricted status afforded to religious groups under the Religions Act did not allow members of such a group to enjoy effectively their right to freedom of religion, rendering such a right illusory and theoretical rather than practical and effective, as required by the Convention.

“The applications for registration as a religious organization submitted by the first and second applicants as founders of their respective groups… were denied by reference to the insufficient period of the groups’ existence. Finally, the restricted status of a religious group for which they qualified and in which the third applicant existed conveyed no practical or effective benefits to them as such a group was deprived of legal personality, property rights and the legal capacity to protect the interests of its members and was also severely hampered in the fundamental aspects of its religious functions.

“In the instant case the Russian Government did not identify any pressing social need which the impugned restriction served or any relevant and sufficient reasons which could justify the lengthy waiting period that a religious organization had to endure prior to obtaining legal personality.”

President of the Church of Scientology of Nizhnekamsk, Mr. Emir Ramazanov, stated, “The judgment of the European Court not only raises the standards of the protection of freedom of conscience and freedom of association to a new level in Russia and in Europe, but also confirms that the European standards guarantee the protection even when injustice comes from national laws.”

The Scientology religion was founded by author and philosopher L. Ron Hubbard. Scientologists believe that Man is an immortal spiritual being and basically good, and that the spiritual potential of Man can be restored (i.e., man can be salvaged) within one lifetime. The first church was opened in the United States in 1954. Now Scientology has over 8,500 Churches, Missions and affiliated groups and millions of members in 165 countries. In Russia there are over 40 churches and Mission of Scientology, from St. Petersburg to Vladivostok.

Contact: Karin Pouw

Phone: (323) 960-3500

Fax: (323) 960-3508

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Scientology Magazine Earns Religion Communicators Council Award

Scientology Magazine Earns Religion Communicators Council Award













Los Angeles, Ca (PRWEB) March 6, 2009

Freedom Magazine, a Church of Scientology International publication has been recognized by the Religion Communicators Council (RCC) with the 2009 DeRose-Hinkhouse Memorial Awards Certificate of Merit for writing on the web. The award went to Psychiatric Screening: Destroying Lives for Profit, for its dispassionate look at the facts and figures of this psychiatric experiment and its casualties–our children.

The award-winning article details the case of Aliah Gleason, who was taken from school without her parents’ consent and placed in Austin State Hospital. Aliah was hospitalized simply because her parents refused to place their 11-year-old daughter on dangerous psychiatric drugs that the FDA warns “increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior (suicidality) in children and adolescents.” And Aliah was prescribed these drugs based only on her answers to the questions in a school-based psychiatric screening program.    

The Freedom feature traces the background of this experiment in human behavior, finding that such programs have ties to multibillion-dollar interests that will profit enormously from their implementation.

Purporting to prevent child suicide, screening programs factually increase its risk, according to Freedom Magazine. The article cites a Duke University study that found that surveys can influence behavior and conduct. Thus, the article notes, “…screening programs have made some health practitioners nervous that peoples’ problems will worsen by being pumped with questions about depression and thoughts of suicide.”

The Religion Communicators Council is an interfaith association of religion communicators at work in print and electronic communication, marketing and in public relations. The DeRose-Hinkhouse Memorial Awards are presented annually to members of the RCC who demonstrate excellence in religion communications and public relations.

Premised on the principles of human rights, Freedom Magazine has been a catalyst for groundbreaking reforms in the public interest and has been broadly hailed as a leading voice for human rights and civil liberties for more than 40 years. Freedom Magazine is published by the Church of Scientology International. Scientology churches publish 20 local and regional editions of the magazine.

To read the award-winning article and for more information on Freedom Magazine, visit its web site at http://www.freedommag.org or the official Scientology site at http://www.scientology.org.

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Vocus©Copyright 1997-2010, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.