Author Archives: Church of Scientology International

A Scientology Church, Proud of its Heritage, Looks to the Future

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- On the eve of the celebration of its anniversary, the Church of Scientology Pasadena shares the unique history of its Old Town home. Just off Colorado Boulevard in the Old Pasadena Historic District, the Church of Scientology opens its doors and invites those curious about Scientology to step inside through an episode of "Destination Scientology" on the Scientology Network. Learn what makes the Church so special to its members and the community at large.

In dedicating the Church in July 2010, Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige told those gathered for the celebration, "You are now part of a movement like nothing in our history. And it is gaining momentum by the day." He reminded Pasadena Scientologists that "there is indeed a lot of help we must now bring to bear. That is the pledge we make today, to the city of Pasadena."

And that is a pledge the Church has embraced and embodied ever since.

The California State Assembly and Historic Preservation Commission awarded the Church a Historic Preservation Award "for preserving the rich heritage of Pasadena" for its work in restoring its new home, the iconic structure known as the Braley Building. It was originally a bicycle emporium constructed in 1906, before the advent of the automobile, when a bicycle "highway" was built through the city to accommodate this new form of transportation.

The rise and fall of the Braley Building and its revitalization epitomize the journey of the city itself: springing up from the region's orange groves in the early days of the 20th century to become one of California's premier cities, Pasadena all but succumbed to urban blight. But the beautiful Old Town was reborn, thanks to the concerted efforts of those who were proud of its heritage, some of whom worked alongside the Church of Scientology to restore this heritage building to its former glory.

While it honors its past, Pasadena is also home to Cal Tech and its NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, whose missions have flown to every planet and the Sun to understand our place in the universe.

The Church of Scientology likewise looks to the future with the unique spiritual technology developed by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard that empowers people to live their best life and achieve their dreams.

Destination: Scientology is an original series with each episode bringing the viewer inside a new Church of Scientology, showcasing their diversity and the cooperation that weaves every Church of Scientology into the local community fabric.

The Scientology Network debuted on March 12, 2018. Since launching, the Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages. Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross-section of cultures and faiths but share a common purpose of uplifting communities.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV channel 320 and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, through satellite television, mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/news/stop-and-smell-the-roses-destination-scientology-pasadena-866845

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/AO2y2E3c5tE

On the eve of the celebration of its anniversary, the Church of Scientology Pasadena shares the unique history of its Old Town home. Just off Colorado Boulevard in the Old Pasadena Historic District, the Church of Scientology opens its doors and invites those curious about Scientology to step inside through an episode of "Destination Scientology" on the Scientology Network.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Scientology Churches and Scientologists Proud to Support Drug Prevention Across the Globe

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Active in drug education and prevention throughout the year, Scientology Churches and Scientologists go all out in support of the UN's International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

As they do each year, Scientology Churches marked this day by organizing conferences and training programs where they introduced officials and other concerned community leaders to Foundation for a Drug-Free World's educational materials, provided training, and coordinated actions to reach youth with effective, fact-based drug education before they become trapped in addiction.

Whether by setting up information booths in busy walking streets, organizing drug-free bike rallies and soccer tournaments, or completing a grueling 10-day 1,200-kilometers (745-mile) bicycle circuit through the Czech Republic, Scientologists pour their heart and soul into forwarding the message of the UN's annual World Drug Day campaign.

They provide drug education lectures in schools and pull out all stops to bring concerned individuals and organizations on board to greatly expand the number of youths reached with the truth about drugs.

According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, "Prevention strategies based on scientific evidence working with families, schools, and communities can ensure that children and youth, especially the most marginalized and poor, grow and stay healthy and safe into adulthood and old age. For every dollar spent on prevention, at least ten can be saved in future health, social and crime costs."

Noting the role substance abuse plays in the disintegration of the social fabric, Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard wrote, "Research has demonstrated that the single most destructive element present in our current culture is drugs."

In the conviction that effective, fact-based drug education can help youth avoid the tragedy of drug abuse and its deadly consequences, the Church of Scientology sponsors Foundation for a Drug-Free World, the world's largest nongovernmental drug information and prevention campaign.

Foundation for a Drug-Free World was formed in 2006 to distribute educational materials and to develop new materials to meet the challenge of continually changing drug trends. The Foundation has grown to a network of some 200 chapters around the world. The Foundation provides the Truth About Drugs secular program and materials free of charge to drug educators worldwide.

"As long as people think drugs are a matter of personal freedom and don't see the harm in them, they are willing to try them," says Vlastimil Špalek, chairman of Drug-Free World Czech Republic who is featured in an episode of "Voices for Humanity" on the Scientology Network. "And once they start using, they're soon addicted. It is not good enough just to tell young people not to get involved with drugs. You have to give them a way to get the facts themselves, come to their own conclusions, and make their own decisions about whether or not to get involved."

Anyone wishing to see just how simple and effective it is to adopt the Foundation's drug education and prevention campaign is invited to watch episodes of "Voices for Humanity," a Scientology Network original series of short documentaries introducing changemakers from all faiths, cultures and nations as they extend help to their communities through Scientology-sponsored humanitarian programs.

Since launching with a special episode featuring Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige, Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages. Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320 and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.drugfreeworld.org

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/feYDc1T0GqM

Active in drug education and prevention throughout the year, Scientology Churches and Scientologists go all out in support of the UN's International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Scientology 4th of July Celebration Brings the Community Together with Family Fun

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- More than a thousand joined the Church of Scientology Los Angeles in East Hollywood for a 4th of July family festival filled with games and activities for the children.

It was a classic sun-filled Los Angeles day, perfect for celebrating the 4th of July on L. Ron Hubbard Way. The entire street was decorated in red, white and blue. And with so many games and activities to choose from, there was something to delight children of all ages throughout the afternoon.

Activities and games included bouncy houses, a water slide for the older kids and a splash pad for the toddlers. Youngsters competed in sack races, pie-eating contests and hula hoop competitions while others played basketball and Velcro archery.

The petting zoo, pony rides and treasure hunt were particularly popular. And for the artistically inclined, an arts and crafts booth was open all afternoon.

This was the latest of a series of events held by the Church of Scientology Los Angeles, each of them free of charge and organized for maximum fun for the entire family. Last month the community joined the Church in a Memorial Day celebration, and more holiday-themed programs are planned throughout the year.

For more information on the next community celebration, contact the Church of Scientology Los Angeles at (323) 953-3206 or visit their Facebook or Instagram.

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles is an Ideal Scientology Organization, configured to service Scientologists in their ascent to spiritual freedom and serve as a home for the entire community-a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations.

An episode of "Inside Scientology" featuring the Church of Scientology Los Angeles was part of the special when Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige launched the network in 2018. The network is available at DIRECTV channel 320 and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, through mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/inside-scientology/inside-a-church.html

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/emtjD_s6SHA

More than a thousand joined the Church of Scientology Los Angeles in East Hollywood for a 4th of July family festival filled with games and activities for the children.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Church of Scientology Helps Nonprofit Strike Out Against Drugs

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- In the heart of Hollywood, the Church of Scientology Los Angeles joined forces with local nonprofit Strike Out Against Drugs in a musical tribute to drug-free living.

Visitors to the Hollywood Walk of Fame on International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking were treated to a different kind of rock concert this year. On a stage just outside the Scientology Public Information Center on Hollywood Boulevard, the nonprofit Strike Out Against Drugs organized the concert. And the message of those performing was: Learn the truth about drugs. Because knowing about something that can hurt you is half the battle of being able to defeat it.

Strike Out Against Drugs founder David Sanchez knows what he's talking about when he speaks about the importance of drug education. Introduced to marijuana by a neighbor at the age of 9, he soon progressed to heroin and crystal meth, and from there to a life of crime. By the time he was 18 he was serving time in jail and ended up doing so for a total of 22 years.

When he finally got himself off drugs in 2012, he opened a sober living facility called Beacon of Hope to help former addicts transition to a drug-free, crime-free life.

He and most of the men in his facility started on drugs when they were kids, which is why he is so passionate about reaching kids before they become statistics.

"I had to find an organization that was like-minded, that had the will and the want to get out there and make a change in the community," Sanchez says in an episode of "Voices for Humanity" on the Scientology Network. "Drug-Free World has the facts about drugs, the truth about drugs."

Learning that the Church of Scientology Los Angeles is active with the program locally, he visited the Church and they provided him with all the materials and assistance he needed to get his drug prevention program off the ground.

Sanchez delivers drug education in local schools. And he brings former addicts with him to talk to kids about what drugs are and what they do. "We are real people telling our real stories," he says. And he finds the Foundation for a Drug-Free World's youth-friendly materials get through to kids that the smartest thing they can do is to make the firm decision not to experiment with drugs.

To make his initiative available to anyone, anywhere in and around Los Angeles, Sanchez bought and refurbished a minibus, turning it into a mobile drug prevention theater where he shows the Foundation for a Drug-Free World public service announcements and "Truth About Drugs: Real People, Real Stories" documentary. He parks the bus at events, festivals-anywhere people gather.

To date, David Sanchez has reached over 1.5 million people with its anti-drug message and has changed the lives of countless kids.

"If I can keep one person, one kid, from having that type of lifestyle," says Sanchez, "then I've done my job, and I'm very proud to be able to do that."

According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, "Prevention strategies based on scientific evidence working with families, schools, and communities can ensure that children and youth, especially the most marginalized and poor, grow and stay healthy and safe into adulthood and old age. For every dollar spent on prevention, at least ten can be saved in future health, social and crime costs."

Noting the role substance abuse plays in the disintegration of the social fabric, Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard wrote, "Research has demonstrated that the single most destructive element present in our current culture is drugs."

Foundation for a Drug-Free World was formed in 2006 to serve as the primary distributor of educational materials and to develop new materials to meet the challenge of continually changing drug trends. The Foundation has grown to a network of some 200 chapters around the world. Thanks to the support of the Church of Scientology and Scientologists, it provides the Truth About Drugs secular program and materials free of charge to drug educators worldwide.

Voices for Humanity is a Scientology Network original series of short documentaries introducing changemakers from all faiths, cultures and nations as they extend help to their communities through Scientology-sponsored humanitarian programs.

Since launching with a special episode featuring Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige, Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages. Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320 and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/david-sanchez.html

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/95biwRmra1k

In the heart of Hollywood, the Church of Scientology Los Angeles joined forces with local nonprofit Strike Out Against Drugs in a musical tribute to drug-free living. Visitors to the Hollywood Walk of Fame on International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking were treated to a different kind of rock concert this year.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Drug Prevention Cyclists Race to Reach Youth with the Truth About Drugs

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- After a two-year hiatus because of COVID, athletes are once more sprinting through the Czech Republic to reach youth with the truth about drugs. Founder Vlastimil Špalek and his team of drug-prevention activists are featured in an episode of "Voices for Humanity" on the Scientology Network.

Athletes on the grueling 10-day, 1,200-kilometers (745-mile) circuit through the Czech Republic view this sporting event as a race against time. The 18th annual Drug-Free Czech Cyclo-Run (pausing only when prevented by the pandemic) is a campaign to help protect youth from the tragedy of drug abuse and addiction. And the numbers tell the tale.

Roughly one in three Czech Republic children and teens have experimented with an illicit substance, says the group's spokesperson. This is an estimated 200,000 youths, including children as young as 10.

Cycling through a circuit of 41 towns and cities, the team will complete their tour of the country in 10 days.

A Cyclo-Run, a term they coined, cycles from town to town and leads youth and community leaders and officials through an anti-drug run in each of their destinations.

In each town, they also meet with officials and community leaders, provide youth with drug education lessons, and lead them in taking the association's drug-free pledge.

"As long as people think drugs are a matter of personal freedom and don't see the harm in them, they are willing to try them," says Vlastimil Špalek, Cyclo-Run founder and chairman of Drug-Free World Czech Republic. "And once they start using, they're soon addicted. It is not good enough just to tell young people not to get involved with drugs. You have to give them a way to get the facts themselves, come to their own conclusions, and make their own decisions about whether or not to get involved."

According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, "Prevention strategies based on scientific evidence working with families, schools, and communities can ensure that children and youth, especially the most marginalized and poor, grow and stay healthy and safe into adulthood and old age. For every dollar spent on prevention, at least ten can be saved in future health, social and crime costs."

Noting the role substance abuse plays in the disintegration of the social fabric, Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard wrote, "Research has demonstrated that the single most destructive element present in our current culture is drugs."

Foundation for a Drug-Free World was formed in 2006 to serve as the primary distributor of educational materials and to develop new materials to meet the challenge of continually changing drug trends. The Foundation has grown to a network of some 200 chapters around the world. Thanks to the support of the Church of Scientology and Scientologists, it provides the Truth About Drugs secular program and materials free of charge to drug educators worldwide.

Voices for Humanity is a Scientology Network original series of short documentaries introducing changemakers from all faiths, cultures and nations as they extend help to their communities through Scientology-sponsored humanitarian programs.

Since launching with a special episode featuring Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige, Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages. Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320 and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/JKOm9j3HuQc

After a two-year hiatus because of COVID, athletes are once more sprinting through the Czech Republic to reach youth with the truth about drugs. Founder Vlastimil Špalek and his team of drug-prevention activists are featured in an episode of "Voices for Humanity" on the Scientology Network.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

5 Actions That Can Save Lives from Drug Overdose

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Scientology Churches provide tools anyone can use to help in the face of the drug overdose crisis. In honor of International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, learn and use these tools and help turn the tide on the drug overdose crisis.

There are five simple things anyone can do to take effective action against overdose deaths.

Parents, educators, community leaders and individuals - using these resources - can save lives.

Take these simple steps:

* Understand how drugs work and what they do by reading the Truth About Drugs booklets available through the website of Foundation for a Drug-Free World.

* Attend the Foundation's International Day Against Drugs Online Conference.

* Enroll on free online drug education courses on the Foundation's website. See how easy it is to learn the truth about drugs. Educate yourself and use this information to feel confident about speaking to others on this vital subject.

* Make the decision to use what you've learned to help your family, friends and community as a drug prevention volunteer.

* Order your drug prevention materials. They will be shipped to you free of charge.

According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, "Prevention strategies based on scientific evidence working with families, schools, and communities can ensure that children and youth, especially the most marginalized and poor, grow and stay healthy and safe into adulthood and old age. For every dollar spent on prevention, at least ten can be saved in future health, social and crime costs."

Using the resources from Foundation for a Drug-Free World, volunteers in countries across the globe are reaching their communities with this vital information. See how effective this initiative is by watching episodes of Voices for Humanity on the Scientology Network.

Scientology Churches are marking International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking with programs to bring these drug-prevention tools to their communities. They will also provide free training in the use of the Truth About Drugs materials and will assist you in any way they can to help you succeed in this vital endeavor. Contact your nearest Scientology Church for details.

Noting the role substance abuse plays in the disintegration of the social fabric, Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard wrote, "Research has demonstrated that the single most destructive element present in our current culture is drugs."

Foundation for a Drug-Free World was formed in 2006 to serve as the primary distributor of educational materials and to develop new materials to meet the challenge of continually changing drug trends. The Foundation has grown to a network of some 200 chapters around the world. Thanks to the support of the Church of Scientology and Scientologists, it provides the Truth About Drugs secular program and materials free of charge to drug educators worldwide.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/D-HYTlUZc0o

Scientology Churches provide tools anyone can use to help in the face of the drug overdose crisis. In honor of International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, learn and use these tools and help turn the tide on the drug overdose crisis.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Help End the Drug Abuse Crisis: Learn How on the Scientology Network

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The United Nations set aside June 26 as International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking "to promote action and cooperation toward the goal of an international society free of drug abuse." And at no time has it been more urgent to do so. The Scientology Network marks the day by focusing on humanitarians who are working to end the drug abuse crisis in towns and cities across the world.

According to a study published in 2018, illicit drug use was responsible for over 750,000 deaths per year. In the U.S. alone, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that more than 105,000 lives were lost due to overdose in 2021. Little wonder that the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is calling for "urgent action to protect people, including by strengthening drug use prevention...." And this is why they selected #CareInCrises as this year's slogan for International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

A global problem demands a global solution. Which is why the Church of Scientology developed the Truth About Drugs, now one of the world's largest nongovernmental drug information and prevention initiatives. In 2006, Foundation for a Drug-Free World, a secular nonprofit corporation, was formed to serve as the primary distributor of the educational materials and to develop new materials to meet the challenge of continually changing drug trends.

Scientology Network is marking this year's International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking by featuring episodes of the original series "Voices for Humanity," documenting the work of drug-prevention activists who are saving lives:

* On the streets of Los Angeles, former addict David Sanchez uses Foundation for a Drug-Free World materials to give kids the street smarts they need to make the right choice about living drug-free. "I knew that I had to find a way to educate people," he says. "Knowing about something that could hurt you is half the battle of being able to defeat it."

* Some 8,700 miles away in Malaysia, Khai Aziz, lead singer of the hard-core straight-edge punk band Second Combat, uses his music to spread the message to youth that there's nothing cool about using drugs. Straight edge is hardcore punk whose adherents refrain from using drugs. And with drug dealers targeting younger and younger children, Aziz is fighting back, using the Foundation's Truth About Drugs initiative to reach kids in school.

* Lithuanian-born Ingrida Lingyte's life was changed forever when her mother was killed and her sister paralyzed in an accident caused by a drunk driver. Years later, on a visit to Colombia, she fell in love with the country and made it her home. To combat Colombia's drug culture and the suffering it causes, Lingyte and her team have reached one-fifth of the country's population with the Truth About Drugs. And they're still going strong.

Episodes on these and many more drug-prevention activists will be airing throughout the day, showing how people from all walks of life, nationalities and affiliations are using the Truth About Drugs initiative to raise awareness about drugs and help people make the decision to live drug-free lives.

According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, "Prevention strategies based on scientific evidence working with families, schools, and communities can ensure that children and youth, especially the most marginalized and poor, grow and stay healthy and safe into adulthood and old age. For every dollar spent on prevention, at least ten can be saved in future health, social and crime costs."

Noting the role substance abuse plays in the disintegration of the social fabric, Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard wrote, "Research has demonstrated that the single most destructive element present in our current culture is drugs."

Foundation for a Drug-Free World was formed in 2006 to serve as the primary distributor of educational materials and to develop new materials to meet the challenge of continually changing drug trends. The Foundation has grown to a network of some 200 chapters around the world. Thanks to the support of the Church of Scientology and Scientologists, it provides the Truth About Drugs secular program and materials free of charge to drug educators worldwide.

"Voices for Humanity" is a Scientology Network original series of short documentaries introducing changemakers from all faiths, cultures and nations as they extend help to their communities through Scientology-sponsored humanitarian programs.

Since launching with a special episode featuring Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige, Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages. Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320 and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/95biwRmra1k

The United Nations set aside June 26 as International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking "to promote action and cooperation toward the goal of an international society free of drug abuse." And at no time has it been more urgent to do so. The Scientology Network marks the day by focusing on humanitarians who are working to end the drug abuse crisis in towns and cities across the world.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Scientology Churches Across the Globe Support Drug Prevention as World Drug Day 2022 Approaches

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- With International Day Against Drug Abuse and Human Trafficking one week away, Scientology Churches across the world rededicate themselves to handling "the other pandemic" - drug abuse and addiction.

Drug overdose deaths of youth age 14-18 nearly doubled from 2019 to 2020 and the numbers continue to climb. The cause: counterfeit pain and anxiety medications laced with fentanyl or similar synthetic opioids.

The motto of United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime for this year's International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is #CareinCrisis, highlighting the urgency of dealing with this "other pandemic" affecting our youth.

A global problem, drug abuse demands a global solution. And the Church of Scientology and its members are dedicated to reversing drug abuse, addiction and overdose casualties by addressing this crisis through education.

The Church of Scientology and Scientologists sponsor the Truth About Drugs program, one of the world's largest nongovernmental drug education and prevention initiatives.

Because young people presented with the unvarnished facts about what drugs can do are far more likely to reject them on their own, Truth About Drugs is in high demand as an educational tool in schools, law enforcement units and community-based settings.

In preparation for International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Scientology Churches have scheduled drug education conferences and open house events where officials and community leaders will brief those attending on the crisis as it affects their communities and coordinate effective action to tackle the problem.

Working with local chapters of Foundation for a Drug-Free World, Scientology Churches provide drug education specialist training, work with educators and school resource officers to reach youth through school presentations and set up information stands in high-traffic areas.

The materials present:
* A factual and concise overview of exactly what drugs are, how they work and what they do
* Their street names
* The long- and short-term side effects of the most commonly abused substances.

As to getting through to children and teens on this crucial subject, Truth About Drugs booklets and videos are presented in youth-friendly terms. And they hear about drugs from those who lived through addiction and survived to tell their stories.

Foundation for a Drug-Free World also offers interactive Truth About Drugs courses designed for anyone to learn this information at their own pace.

Learn more about the Truth About Drugs initiative and Foundation for a Drug-Free World on the Scientology Network, where drug prevention advocates creating change with the program are featured in episodes of the original series "Voices for Humanity."

The Foundation for a Drug-Free World is a volunteer-based organization with a network of 200 chapters around the world. Thanks to the support of the Church of Scientology and Scientologists, the Foundation provides the Truth About Drugs secular program and materials free of charge to drug educators worldwide.

Watch "Voices for Humanity." on DIRECTV Channel 320 or stream episodes at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/WPHAsH3wFGY

With International Day Against Drug Abuse and Human Trafficking one week away, Scientology Churches across the world rededicate themselves to handling "the other pandemic" - drug abuse and addiction.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Scientology Network Features ‘Big Sonia,’ the Inspiring Story of a Holocaust Survivor

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Scientology Network's "Documentary Showcase" presents the award-winning documentary "Big Sonia" Friday June 17, at 8:30 p.m. PT. Documentary Showcase is the weekly series providing a platform for independent filmmakers to share their work on important social, cultural and environmental issues.

"Big Sonia" tells the life story of Sonia Warshawski, who was 17 in 1942 when the Germans forced her and her family into slave labor in the ghetto. From there she was transported to and survived Auschwitz-Birkenau and Bergen-Belsen concentration camps. The great-grandmother and businesswoman, now living in Kansas City, Missouri, is a surprising source of inspiration for a new generation.

Codirected by Leah Warshawski and Todd Soliday, "Big Sonia" follows Sonia as she's served an eviction notice for the iconic tailor shop she's owned and operated for over 30 years. Faced with an agonizing decision of whether to carry on anew or retire, her lifelong struggle with her memories comes to the fore as she admits to preferring to stay busy "to keep the dark parts away." But it's those same traumatic memories of her youth that make her a compelling and popular motivational speaker. Viewers will watch as Sonia delivers inspiring speeches in schools, churches and prisons, and experience the powerful impact her message of hope has on audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

ABOUT LEAH WARSHAWSKI

Codirector Leah Warshawski, Sonia's granddaughter, produces and directs documentary features, television shows, commercials and branded entertainment. Her first feature, "Finding Hillywood" (2013), won six awards, including the Critics' Award (Sebastopol Doc Festival) and the Audience Award (Napa Film Festival), and screened at more than 65 festivals.

ABOUT TODD SOLIDAY

Codirector Todd Soliday is a director, director of photography and editor with more than 25 years of experience in production and post-production. He specializes in documentary storytelling and adventure films such as "Platinum" (2007). As post-production supervisor for "Finding Hillywood," Soliday was in charge of graphics and sound and edited a music video for the film. Recent documentary projects include "Out of Luck" (2015) and "The Breach" (2014).

ABOUT DOCUMENTARY SHOWCASE

Fundamental to Scientology is a humanitarian mission that extends to some 200 nations with programs for human rights, human decency, literacy, morality, drug prevention and disaster relief. For this reason, the Scientology Network provides a platform for independent filmmakers who embrace a vision of building a better world.

DOCUMENTARY SHOWCASE debuts films weekly from award-winning independent filmmakers whose goal is to improve society by raising awareness of social, cultural and environmental issues.

For more information, visit Scientology.tv/docs.

Scientology Network debuted on March 12, 2018. Since launching with a special introduction by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige, Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories in 17 languages. Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320 and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:
https://www.scientology.tv/series/documentary-showcase/big-sonia/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/4ALASRY0je4

Scientology Network's "Documentary Showcase" presents the award-winning documentary "Big Sonia" Friday June 17, at 8:30 p.m. PT. Documentary Showcase is the weekly series providing a platform for independent filmmakers to share their work on important social, cultural and environmental issues.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

This Summer, Walk in L. Ron Hubbard’s Footsteps with ‘Inside Scientology: Saint Hill’

EAST GRINSTEAD, U.K. /ScoopCloud/ -- Summer is a magnificent time to visit Saint Hill, L. Ron Hubbard's home in the UK. Share the beauty and history of the quaint Sussex town of East Grinstead through an episode of "Inside Scientology" on the Scientology Network.

"Inside Scientology: Saint Hill" provides a glimpse into what it was like to be with Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard during one of the most significant periods of his research into the spirit, mind and life.

Walk in L. Ron Hubbard's footsteps where he codified the Bridge to Total Freedom, guiding the individual from their first awareness of Scientology through each higher state as they progress to spiritual freedom. Here too, Mr. Hubbard developed the administrative technology to ensure the standard delivery of his breakthrough discoveries in any Scientology Church or Mission, now and into the future. And experience the exceptional beauty and charm of the English countryside and Saint Hill Manor, Mr. Hubbard's home in the UK.

Then come along as the Scientology Network takes viewers inside the modern-day castle that serves as the spiritual headquarters for Scientologists throughout the UK and those from Churches across the globe who wish to ascend the Bridge at L. Ron Hubbard's home.

Saint Hill Castle was inspired by an 11th-century Norman fortress. It was conceived and designed by Mr. Hubbard to accommodate the tremendous growth of the religion in the 1960s, with Scientologists arriving in the UK in ever-increasing numbers to progress to higher states of awareness and ability.

"Inside Scientology: Saint Hill" also takes viewers inside the annual celebration of the anniversary of the International Association of Scientologists. Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige hosts the celebration, briefs Scientologists on milestone accomplishments, and presents the International Association of Scientologists Freedom Medal to humanitarians for their outstanding service to mankind.

The Scientology Network debuted in 2018. Since launching with a special episode featuring Mr. Miscavige, Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages.

Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross-section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network can be streamed at Scientology.tv and is available through satellite television, mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/inside-scientology/saint-hill.html

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/d_Qr5xt5ACw

Summer is a magnificent time to visit Saint Hill, L. Ron Hubbard's home in the UK. Share the beauty and history of the quaint Sussex town of East Grinstead through an episode of "Inside Scientology" on the Scientology Network.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Join the Church of Scientology in Celebrating the Anniversary of the Freewinds

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Each June, Scientologists celebrate the Maiden Voyage of the Freewinds, a ship powered by the purpose: to help create a better world.The Freewinds is a religious retreat that serves Scientologists as the pinnacle of their journey to total spiritual freedom.

Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard directed that the highest levels of the Bridge to Total Freedom be delivered in a distraction-free environment, off the crossroads of the day-to-day world. So it was that Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige saw to the purchase and retrofitting of the Motor Vessel Freewinds, which was christened on June 6, 1988.

From the top of her bridge to the depths of her engine room, the Freewinds is a ship powered by the purpose: to help create a better world. With its state-of-the-art navigation system, manned by some of the most competent sailors on the sea, this is a ship that uplifts communities wherever she puts in. Sailing under the flag of the Sea Organization, the Church's religious order, the Freewinds forwards Scientology humanitarian goals, helping to shape the fate of entire nations.

Civic and religious leaders from throughout the Caribbean and Latin America recognize the Freewinds as a place of profound personal renewal, and as a source of solutions to meet their needs through the Church's humanitarian programs and interfaith initiatives.

When the pandemic struck in 2020, the Freewinds was in Aruba. She rapidly geared up to clean and sanitize schools, healthcare centers, shelters, fire and police stations, museums, nonprofits, businesses and public facilities. And her Volunteer Ministers distributed thousands of copies of educational booklets to prevent the spread of the coronavirus through the island. The response was so effective that Aruba's Director of Tourism and Public Health credited the work of the Freewinds with enabling the island to reopen its borders to tourism and trade.

In launching the Scientology TV Network in March 2018, David Miscavige promised that the channel's programming would take people "into our Churches, spanning 167 countries on six continents... behind the scenes and into our Church management, publication and dissemination facilities, humanitarian outreach centers and programs..." with the network's original series Destination: Scientology and Inside Scientology.

So, on the 34th anniversary of the ship's Maiden Voyage, watch Inside Scientology: The Freewinds on the Scientology Network. And see just why its yearly anniversary is celebrated by leaders throughout the Caribbean and Scientologists everywhere.

Since launching, the Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages.

Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross-section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320 and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/inside-scientology/freewinds.html

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/pwaj9w78_hM

Each June, Scientologists celebrate the Maiden Voyage of the Freewinds, a ship powered by the purpose: to help create a better world. The Freewinds is a religious retreat that serves Scientologists as the pinnacle of their journey to total spiritual freedom.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

World Environment Day: Scientologists Say Sustainability Depends on All of Us

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- With its 2022 motto "Only One Earth," World Environment Day organizers recognize that sustainability depends on individual choices. Scientology Churches mark the 50th anniversary of World Environment Day June 5 by emphasizing personal accountability as the key to safeguarding the environment.

"You are listened to. You can influence others," wrote L. Ron Hubbard in the introduction to "The Way to Happiness," a common-sense guide to better living and modern-day moral code applicable to people of all faiths or none.

Churches and Scientologists are emphasizing two precepts in keeping with this year's World Environment Day slogan, "We have #Only One Earth. Let's take care of it."

These precepts are:

Set a Good Example, and

Safeguard and Improve Your Environment

"Cut down too many forests, foul too many rivers and seas, mess up the atmosphere and we have had it," L. Ron Hubbard wrote in the 12th precept of the book. "The surface temperature can go roasting hot, the rain can turn to sulfuric acid. All living things could die."

"Man has gotten up to the potential of destroying the planet. He must be pushed on up to the capability and actions of saving it.

"It is, after all, what we're standing on."

This year's World Environment Day campaign emphasizes the need "for collective, transformative action on a global scale to celebrate, protect and restore our planet."

To raise awareness about the environment and the need to take action, Scientology Churches and Scientologists are organizing community cleanups. As Mr. Hubbard points out in the introduction to "The Way to Happiness," "It is in your power to point the way to a less dangerous and happier life."

And Scientology Churches bring together those concerned about this and other vital issues at open house events and conferences to create maximum impact by coordinated action.

"The answer to this planet's problems will not be found in the material. Of this there can be no question," said Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige in an overview he presented of the Scientology religion. "For if those solutions can't prevent war nation to nation, how then can it be expected to answer questions like love, happiness or peace of mind?... What people need are real solutions, real tools to deal with and effectively overcome human problems."

And one such solution supported by Scientology Churches and Scientologists is "The Way to Happiness."

Watch "The Way to Happiness" book on film on the Scientology Network, available on DIRECTV channel 320 and streaming at Scientology.tv, through mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.thewaytohappiness.org/thewaytohappiness/precepts/safeguard-and-improve-your-environment.html

https://www.scientology.org/how-we-help/way-to-happiness/

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/FN34zm5375Y

With its 2022 motto "Only One Earth," World Environment Day organizers recognize that sustainability depends on individual choices. Scientology Churches mark the 50th anniversary of World Environment Day June 5 by emphasizing personal accountability as the key to safeguarding the environment.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Scientology Initiative to Help Educators Empower Their Students

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Seminars for hundreds of educators hosted by the Scientology headquarters in South Africa over the past two months launched an initiative to tackle a crisis affecting the country and the entire continent. As UNESCO observed Africa Week May 22-25, officials at the Education World Forum 2022 in London brought home the urgency of reversing the educational crisis affecting the continent.

An estimated 53 percent of children in low- and middle-income countries cannot read or understand a simple story by the end of primary school. In poor countries, the level is as high as 80 percent. And despite the continent's abundant resources, 34 percent of African families live below the poverty line.

In South Africa nearly half the country lived in poverty in 2015, a situation that has only worsened with the pandemic.

The Church of Scientology, seeking to tackle this crisis, began a series of seminars held at Kyalami Castle, Scientology headquarters in South Africa, over the past two months.

Teachers from all levels of South Africa's basic education system and representatives of the Gauteng Department of Education and the National Department of Higher Education attended. And they were thrilled with what they learned:

A recent graduate who has just received her teaching degree wondered why she was never taught these skills before. "It makes so much sense," she said. "This will change my entire way of teaching and helping my students."

"The way the seminar was presented to us is exactly the way we need to conduct our training," said a life orientation programme coordinator from the Gauteng Department of Education. "Your presentation is so interactive and this is what we are lacking ... everyone needs these skills."

The program equipped the educators "with the teaching techniques we need to help any student understand and apply what they are studying and it will make us better teachers," said a life orientation and inclusion specialist for the Department of Higher Education and Training.

The program is based on Study Technology, methods developed by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard for the training of Scientology religious counselors, which has tremendous application in the secular sphere. Based on a comprehensive understanding of the actual barriers to effective learning, Study Technology provides precise tools to overcome these barriers, ensuring the ability to learn and apply any body of knowledge. A free introductory online course on Study Technology is available in 18 languages including Zulu through the Scientology website.

It is the ability to impart this knowledge to their students that revitalized educators attending the recent seminars, because with these basics their students can learn the skills they need to escape poverty and set a new course for themselves, their communities and countries.

For more information on the practical application of this technology, watch an episode of Voices for Humanity on the Scientology Network on the work of Dr. Olatunde Odewumi whose program to train educators in Nigeria has introduced this new method of education to hundreds of thousands in his country.

Castle Kyalami serves as a home for the community and a nexus for all who share the goal of bettering the lives of individuals and strengthening communities across the region, nation and all of Africa. Mr. David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, dedicated Kyalami Castle on New Year's Day 2019, reaffirming the commitment of Mr. Hubbard that "from Southern Africa will spring the next great civilization on this planet."

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.org/20-21/#south-africa

Seminars for hundreds of educators hosted by the Scientology headquarters in South Africa over the past two months launched an initiative to tackle a crisis affecting the country and the entire continent. As UNESCO observed Africa Week May 22-25, officials at the Education World Forum 2022 in London brought home the urgency of reversing the educational crisis affecting the continent.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Join the Church of Scientology in a Celebration of the Magic of Copenhagen

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Church of Scientology Copenhagen is celebrating its fifth anniversary in its new home in the heart of the city. Meet staff and parishioners in an episode of "Destination: Scientology" and learn what makes their city so special and how these qualities resonate with the city's Scientologists.

Share their pride in their Viking roots and their city that dates to the 12th century. See the city's green-spired domes, its castles, Tivoli, and the statue of Hans Christian Andersen's Little Mermaid in the harbor.

Wander down one of the longest and most vibrant walking streets in Europe - filled with buskers, shops and restaurants of every description - to the beautifully restored historic landmark in the very heart of the city that is home to the Church of Scientology.

"Destination: Scientology - Copenhagen" on the Scientology Network takes you inside this unique Scientology Church that was dedicated by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige on May 27, 2017. See how it fulfills its role as an Ideal Scientology Organization, configured to service Scientologists in their ascent to spiritual freedom and serve as a home for the entire community - a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations.

The Scientology Network debuted in 2018. Since launching, it has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages.

Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross-section of cultures and faiths but share a common purpose of uplifting communities.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320 and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/XZycUmTZAlY

The Church of Scientology Copenhagen is celebrating its fifth anniversary in its new home in the heart of the city. Meet staff and parishioners in an episode of "Destination: Scientology" and learn what makes their city so special and how these qualities resonate with the city's Scientologists.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

A Month of Community Celebrations at the Church of Scientology of Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- With its purpose to serve as a home for the entire community, the Church of Scientology Los Angeles makes holidays special for local families. And May has been no exception. A Memorial Day festival Monday May 30 at the Church will round out a month of special activities.

May began with a rousing Cinco de Mayo fiesta - a celebration of Mexican culture and heritage. A mariachi band set the tone of the day that was filled with Mexican food, piñata contests, and plenty of treats for the children.

Next, the Church hosted a Mother's Day party, complete with craft stations where kids created flower crowns, bouquets and Mother's Day cards. The "mommy and me" photo booth was filled all afternoon. And many more activities engaged the kids so mothers could spend some quality time trying out products at artisanal booths and chilling out at the Mother's Day massage and pampering stations all along L. Ron Hubbard Way.

Now East Hollywood neighbors are invited to save the date for a family fun festival on Memorial Day. From 12 noon to 6 p.m. on Monday May 30, there will be all-American barbecue, kids games, bouncy houses, an inflatable maze, a water slide (and splash pool for the younger children), sack races, hula hoop contests and arts and crafts with red, white and blue themes. And at 2:30 p.m., the Church will host a veterans recognition ceremony.

All are invited to head for the fun at the corner of Sunset Boulevard and L. Ron Hubbard Way.

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles is an Ideal Scientology Organization, configured to service Scientologists in their ascent to spiritual freedom and serve as a home for the entire community - a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations.

The Church, featured in an episode of Inside Scientology on the Scientology Network, was part of the special when Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige launched the network in 2018. Watch it on DIRECTV channel 320, at Scientology.tv, through mobile apps or via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/inside-scientology/inside-a-church.html

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/8XnzFn688js

With its purpose to serve as a home for the entire community, the Church of Scientology Los Angeles makes holidays special for local families. And May has been no exception. A Memorial Day festival Monday May 30 at the Church will round out a month of special activities.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Join Three Scientologists Whose Work Is a Celebration of Light

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- In honor of International Day of Light, the Scientology Network features the impact of light on the work of artists featured in three episodes of the original series "Meet a Scientologist." UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, sets aside May 16 as International Day of Light to highlight the role of light in science, culture, art, education and sustainable development.

In honor of the day, the Scientology Network spotlights three episodes of the original series "Meet a Scientologist," featuring the work of men and women for whom light is the inspiration and medium of their art.

* János Héder, enthralled by the constellations and nebulae in the enormity of black space, sought to recreate the wonder he experienced through the creation of chandeliers that transform the spaces they illuminate. He and his wife Judit, fellow designer and joint CEO of Manooi Light Creations, and their team of designers and staff bring beauty and luminance to the world.

* Christy Lee Rogers uses the refraction of light through water to create works of photographic brilliance that have been compared to the works of Titian, Rubens and Caravaggio. Her artistic and personal journey and her role in forging a new respect for photography in the world of art is the subject of her episode.

* Tom Rigdon transforms light by faithful use of techniques used in creating the magnificent windows of Gothic and Renaissance churches. Stepping in to take over the faltering company for the wife of his best friend who died suddenly, he built the enterprise into a thriving studio, inspired by his belief that light is the most powerful aesthetic there is.

The Scientology Network debuted in 2018. Since launching with a special episode featuring Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige, Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages.

Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross-section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network can be streamed at Scientology.tv and is available through satellite television, mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/meet-a-scientologist/manooi-chandeliers.html

https://www.scientology.tv/series/meet-a-scientologist/christy-lee-rogers.html

https://www.scientology.tv/series/meet-a-scientologist/tom-rigdon.html

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/FK5OWEAQZ_o

In honor of International Day of Light, the Scientology Network features the impact of light on the work of artists featured in three episodes of the original series "Meet a Scientologist." UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, sets aside May 16 as International Day of Light.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Church of Scientology Portland Celebrates its History and its Future

PORTLAND, Ore. /ScoopCloud/ -- May 11 marks the ninth anniversary of the Ideal Church of Scientology of Portland. The Church invites everyone to visit - whether in person or online. The Portland Church of Scientology holds a very special place in the hearts and minds of Scientologists. At the dedication of the Church on May 11, 2013, Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige explained why.

Portland was the site of the 1985 Scientology Religious Freedom Crusade. Tens of thousands of Scientologists and other religious freedom advocates joined Portland Scientologists to protect their right to practice their religion in the face of a legal decision that violated First Amendment rights.

For some 60 days, they assembled for peaceful marches, concerts and candlelight vigils. And, in the end, the decision was reversed in a landmark legal victory affirming religious freedom in America.

"Portland was our test," said Mr. Miscavige at the grand opening of the new Church. "It was a test of our resolve, our fortitude and determination to avert a grave assault on the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. So when you look at where we stand today, remember it was all because our voices were heard."

That victory not only guaranteed "our inherent right to spiritual salvation," said Mr. Miscavige, but it was also "intrinsically linked to tolerance, brotherhood and the right of every faith to champion the divinity of humankind... And so I ask that you now extend your help to all who would dream of such a freedom, so they too may realize their destiny."

As it does in many cities, the Church meticulously preserved a building of historical importance. Its new home, the Sherlock Building, is recognized as among the most noteworthy late-19th- century structures in Portland.

The Church welcomes anyone wishing to visit to come right in. And those who can't make it in person are invited to do so through the Scientology Network.

Destination: Scientology-Portland is an episode of an original series on the Scientology Network that takes viewers inside Scientology Churches all around the world and discovers what makes each one unique.

The Church of Scientology Portland is an Ideal Scientology Organization, configured to service Scientologists in their ascent to spiritual freedom and serve as a home for the entire community - a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations.

The Scientology Network debuted in 2018. Since launching, with a special episode featuring Mr. Miscavige, it has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages.

Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross-section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network can be streamed at Scientology.tv and is available through satellite television, mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology-portland.org

https://www.scientology.tv/series/destination-scientology/portland.html

https://www.scientology.org/scientology-today/church-openings/grand-opening-scientology-ideal-organization-portland.html

May 11 marks the ninth anniversary of the Ideal Church of Scientology of Portland. The Church invites everyone to visit - whether in person or online. The Portland Church of Scientology holds a very special place in the hearts and minds of Scientologists.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Scientology Churches Around the World Celebrate the Anniversary of Dianetics Today

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Published May 9, 1950, "Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health" burst onto the scene, creating an international phenomenon that continues to this day. In Scientology Churches, Missions and groups on six continents, May 9 has a very special meaning. It marks the day that the first edition of "Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health" rolled off the press. And it was only two years later that L. Ron Hubbard founded Scientology, the world's youngest major religion.

"Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health" created a whirlwind of excitement. It soon climbed to the top of the New York Times bestseller list and remained there for 26 consecutive weeks.

Its effectiveness inspired immediate and dramatic response. Those reading the book connected with each other, teaming up to use this new technology. With 750 Dianetics groups cropping up in the United States, and many more across the English-speaking world, a new movement had begun.

Scientology Churches and Missions and Dianetics groups deliver Dianetics "auditing" - a term that comes from the Latin "to listen."

And with the book now in 50 languages, making the technology available to more than 90 percent of the world's population, Mr. David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, released a series of films, "How to Use Dianetics," along with a new Dianetics Seminar. These make it easy for anyone to put Dianetics to use in their life.

Dianetics helps people free themselves from nightmares, unreasonable fears, upsets, insecurities and psychosomatic illnesses, with results like these:

Grant experienced panic attacks so severe that the left side of his face would go numb, making him feel almost paralyzed. He received a Dianetics session and by the time it was over, "the panic was gone," he says, "and I have never experienced a panic attack since."

When her son was born prematurely with respiratory distress syndrome from immature lung development, Cindy found herself unable to cope. After she and her husband brought their son back from the hospital, Cindy would wake up every time it got quiet, terrified her child had stopped breathing. "I was flooded with irrational waves of guilt, haunted by the question, why did it happen to me?"

Dianetics helped her through her emotional suffering. "I was able to separate out the pain from the memory and remove its negative influence over me and overcome these unfounded fears. I finally slept through the night for the first time since the delivery." And she was able to enjoy every moment with her son. "Rather than worry, I found peace."

Page's dad paid a visit to the doctor because he wasn't feeling right and came home with the news that he had terminal cancer. The shock of his death soon after was devastating to her. "I am so grateful for the Dianetics counseling I received when he died," she says. "I still miss him and love him, but afterward, the unbearable sense of loss was gone."

And the rewards of helping another using Dianetics is every bit as worthwhile. "I have salvaged marriages and helped people overcome drug addiction," says Melissa. "Auditing others gets you in tune with people. When you make one person happy it causes a ripple effect."

The Church of Scientology invites everyone to experience what L. Ron Hubbard made available on May 9, 1950, with the release of "Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health," where he wrote, "You are beginning an adventure. Treat it as an adventure. And may you never be the same again."

Visit a Scientology Church or Mission to enroll on the Dianetics seminar.

"Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health" may be ordered from a Church of Scientology, the book's publisher Bridge Publications, through Amazon.com and other bookstores.

Or for more information, visit the Scientology network and watch the films "What is Dianetics?" Dianetics: An Introduction and "The Dianetics of Grief." The Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320 and streams at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

Since launching with a special episode featuring Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige, Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.org/what-is-dianetics/basic-principles-of-scientology/dianetics-understanding-the-mind.html

https://www.dianetics.org/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/Dt9SyNpirdo

Published May 9, 1950, "Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health" burst onto the scene, creating an international phenomenon that continues to this day. And it was only two years later that L. Ron Hubbard founded Scientology, the world's youngest major religion.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Church of Scientology Celebrates African World Heritage Day by Honoring Changemakers

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The heritage of Africa depends on what we do now to ensure future generations flourish and prosper says the Church of Scientology. UNESCO set aside May 5 as African World Heritage Day to celebrate the continent's unique cultural and natural heritage and to "spearhead international efforts to draw on the vast potential of Africa's cultural and natural heritage as a force for poverty reduction and social cohesion."

The Church of Scientology sponsors humanitarian programs that address crucial factors preventing the realization of these goals: drug abuse, violation of human rights, illiteracy, and systemic corruption.

In sub-Saharan Africa, 88 percent of children of primary and lower secondary school age (202 million) were reported as not proficient in reading, and 84 percent (193 million) were not proficient in mathematics in 2015, according to the United Nations Statistics Division.

Substance abuse, particularly alcohol consumption, has been on the rise in Africa for years, according to the World Health Organization.

The UN Office on Drugs and Crime reports that of 4,799 trafficking victims detected in 26 sub-Saharan African countries from 2016 to 2019, 3,336 were in West Africa including 2,553 children, and 80 percent of victims were trafficked for forced labor.

And according to Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland QC, sub-Saharan Africa received nearly $2 trillion in Foreign Direct Investment and official development assistance between 1980 and 2018, but lost more than $1 trillion to illicit financial outflows. "When looking at the whole of Africa, that figure rises to $1.3 trillion," she told anticorruption representatives gathered in Kigali, Rwanda, for a conference May 3-6. "And let us be clear, $1.3 trillion could lift the 1.4 billion people living on less than $1.25 per day out of poverty."

Seen in the light of some 40 percent of the population in Africa being 15 years old and younger, effective programs that provide youth with the tools they need to address these crises are key to the future of this continent.

Voices for Humanity, an original series on the Scientology Network, features changemakers who are tackling these issues in Africa, helping youth of their countries rise up and achieve their full potential:

* Barry Paul fights against the culture of drugs and violence in his native Kenya. He leads a movement to educate youth on the dangers of drugs, inspiring them to choose a better path.

* Nfamara Jawneh spread the message of human rights in The Gambia after a brutal dictatorship massacred students protesting the regime. His campaign is credited with helping to usher in a new era of democracy in the country.

* Dr. Olatunde Odewumi witnessed the devastating impact of illiteracy in his native Nigeria. He confronted the issue by introducing a new method of education developed by L. Ron Hubbard and has since helped educate hundreds of thousands across the country.

* Zambian priest Teddy Sichinga has introduced poverty-stricken communities to "The Way to Happiness," a common-sense guide to better living. The results have been truly remarkable.

Each of these humanitarian initiatives is sponsored by the Church of Scientology and Scientologists. Thanks to their support, all written and audiovisual materials and educator resources are provided free of charge to educators, parents, community and religious leaders and anyone wishing to take effective action to ensure the full potential of their communities.

These and many more episodes of Voices for Humanity are available through the Scientology Network on DIRECTV Channel 320 and streaming at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

Since launching with a special episode featuring Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige, Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/feYDc1T0GqM

The heritage of Africa depends on what we do now to ensure future generations flourish and prosper says the Church of Scientology. In sub-Saharan Africa, 88 percent of children of primary and lower secondary school age (202 million) were reported as not proficient in reading.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

On World Press Freedom Day: The Importance of Responsible Coverage of Religion

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- On World Press Freedom Day May 3, the Church of Scientology emphasizes that with freedom must come responsibility.

As the Washington Post stated in a recent article, we live in "a media environment that thrives on conflict." But when that conflict marginalizes people because of their religion, the consequences can be dire.

The Church of Scientology International publishes a booklet to clarify religious freedom and its ramifications in today's troubled world.

With its purpose to help create a better understanding of the freedom of religion and belief and provide news on religious freedom and issues affecting this freedom around the world, the Scientology Religious Freedom website and its religious freedom blog promote responsible coverage of religion, religious beliefs and practices, and adherents.

For example, the Scientology Religious Freedom Blog covered two recent studies that found nearly 60 percent of print articles and just under half of all television clips in the British media associate Muslims with terrorism or extremism.

But it is not only Muslims who suffer from slanted and biased media coverage. Hate crimes against Christians in 2020 rose 70 percent over the previous year in Britain, Germany, France, Spain and Sweden, and one factor was found to be "a high level of religious illiteracy" among journalists.

In India, mainline and social media is being blamed for anti-Muslim violence.

And this is not just a recent phenomenon. The U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum has documented how media "served as an important tool to win over the majority of the German public who had not supported Adolf Hitler and to push forward the Nazis' radical program, which required the acquiescence, support, or participation of broad sectors of the population."

The Church of Scientology publishes the booklet "What is Freedom of Religion," which can be downloaded from the website. The Church does so because a vital component in preserving this fundamental human right is ensuring an understanding of the right to freedom of religion or belief and its meaning under universal human rights principles and international human rights law.

The booklet is designed to inform the public regarding the detailed and complex nature of the right to freedom of religion for believers and religious organizations of every faith.

An important feature of this booklet, and one particularly relevant to United Nations World Press Freedom Day, is the "Charter on Journalistic Ethics in Relation to Respect for Religion or Belief." This is a journalistic code for the coverage of religion. The code is based on the principle that journalists "are accountable for the social and political consequences of their actions and have a duty to maintain the highest ethical and professional standards." The standards the charter puts forward are based on broadly accepted human rights codes and instruments referred to in the booklet.

It is the responsibility of those who cherish freedom to ensure fair and accurate reporting of religion. Religious liberty has been likened to a canary in the coal mine - which we ignore at our own peril. Because when religious freedom is ignored, stifled or attacked it predicts the loss of other human rights.

From its beginnings the Church of Scientology has recognized that freedom of religion is a fundamental human right. In a world where conflicts are often traceable to intolerance of others' religious beliefs and practices, the Church has, for more than fifty years, made the preservation of religious liberty an overriding concern.

The Church of Scientology publishes daily blogs on this website to help create a better understanding of the freedom of religion and belief and provide news on religious freedom and issues affecting this freedom around the world.

The Founder of the Scientology religion is L. Ron Hubbard and Mr. David Miscavige is the religion's ecclesiastical leader.

For more information, visit the Scientology website, Scientology Newsroom, Scientology TV network, and the Scientology Religious Freedom Blog.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologyreligion.org/blog/

https://www.scientologyreligion.org/religious-freedom/what-is-freedom-of-religion/

https://www.scientologyreligion.org/

On World Press Freedom Day May 3, the Church of Scientology emphasizes that with freedom must come responsibility. The Church of Scientology International publishes a booklet to clarify religious freedom and its ramifications in today's troubled world.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Join the Church of Scientology Miami as it Celebrates the Fifth Anniversary in its New Home

MIAMI, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- April 29, 2022 marks the anniversary of the dedication of the new Church of Scientology Miami by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige. The strong sense of community of Miami Scientologists, and their purpose and drive to bring real help, inspired Mayor Tomás Regalado to describe the Church as "an anchor for the community, alive with volunteerism," when he welcomed them to their new home in 2017. And this is a reputation they have more than lived up to throughout the past five years.

Miami, Florida, is a tropical paradise unlike any other. At its heart is a melding of Caribbean, Central and South American cultures creating a unique kaleidoscope of Latin sounds, tastes and rhythms. The Church of Scientology is an integral part of this culture and is dedicated to enhancing the lives of the people who call this city home.

The best way to share the eclectic magic of the Church is to come by to find out more. It is located at 2220 South Dixie Highway in Coconut Grove. But if you live far away, an episode of Destination Scientology provides a glimpse behind the scenes.

Viewers see Miami through the eyes of local parishioners and staff, who share what makes Miami so special, including the city's world-famous beaches, Ocean Drive with its art deco splendor, some of the city's most popular eateries, and its Latin culture.

The Church of Scientology Miami is an Ideal Scientology Organization, configured to service Scientologists in their ascent to spiritual freedom and serve as a home for the entire community - a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations.

The Scientology Network debuted in 2018. Since launching, with a special episode featuring Mr. Miscavige, it has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages.

Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross-section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network can be streamed at Scientology.tv and is available through satellite television, mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/destination-scientology/miami.html

https://www.scientology-miami.org/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/AQ8tOFiIK88

April 29, 2022 marks the anniversary of the dedication of the new Church of Scientology Miami by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige. It is located at 2220 South Dixie Highway in Coconut Grove.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard and the Magazine Article That Inspired an International Movement

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- 72 years ago, an article in Astounding Science Fiction hit the newsstands in April and set the stage for the explosive launch of "Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health," which rolled out in May.

"Dianetics" sold out immediately, in no small part because of the enthusiasm of those who had read the magazine article and snapped up copies of the book. It was these men and women who helped propel the book onto bestseller lists, where it stayed week after week as news of its results spread.

Some 750 Dianetics groups sprang up across the United States, with more cropping up in English-speaking countries around the world. And many of the original adherents of Dianetics learned of the subject from this magazine article and ordered their copies as soon as the book rolled off the press.

In Melbourne, John Roberts could hardly wait to get his copy of the book. He learned of Dianetics from a fellow he worked with who had read the article. Roberts, a survivor of the notorious Japanese Changi prisoner of war camp in Malaysia, returned home at the end of World War II a shell of the man he was when he left to serve. And he knew it. Roberts read the article at his friend's suggestion and sent off by mail order for two copies of "Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health."

Roberts' daughter, now in her 90s, described how her father read the book cover to cover without putting it down. He and his friend immediately teamed up to deliver this technology to one another. It accomplished everything he'd hoped for and Roberts became an integral part of the movement that brought Dianetics and Scientology to his country.

Some 9,500 miles away from Melbourne, in Peoria, Illinois, George Seidler also learned about Dianetics from a friend. Seidler had served in the war as a medic and earned a Bronze Star Medal for bravery for crawling out of a bunker under fire to pull wounded soldiers to safety.

After the war, Seidler went college, courtesy of the GI Bill, and it was a classmate who told him about Dianetics. But Seidler wasn't interested.

"I was a scientist and a skeptic to end all skeptics," Seidler said in an interview in 2012. "My philosophy was-unless you can see it, feel it, touch it, it isn't worth bothering with."

Seidler challenged his friend, asking him, "How can you believe that stuff?" But he was actually intrigued with the idea of recovering his full potential, not to mention coming to grips with what he experienced during the war. He bought "Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health" and began reading it right away.

On page 2 of the book, Seidler came across something that completely changed his attitude.

"L. Ron Hubbard wrote that Man is basically good," he said. "I always believed that but never found anyone else who shared my views - certainly not in the religions I knew - but here was L. Ron Hubbard saying it. My wife got interested and started reading it too. Before long, we were fighting over whose turn it was with the one book, so I got a second copy."

Seidler was among those trained directly under L. Ron Hubbard in 1950 at the Dianetics Foundation in Los Angeles. And he continued as an ardent Dianeticist and Scientologist for the rest of his life, opening a Scientology Mission to make this technology of the mind, spirit and life available in his hometown in Illinois.

Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige describes how later, L. Ron Hubbard published the Astounding Science Fiction article as a book - "Dianetics: The Evolution of a Science." And it is in this book that Mr. Hubbard reveals the research methods by which he discovered the reactive mind - the portion of a person's mind which works on a totally stimulus-response basis and is not under volitional control.

Today, "Dianetics: The Evolution of a Science" and "Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health" are available in 50 languages and anyone may study these books. Courses are available at Scientology Churches, Missions and groups across the globe and can also be done by mail or email through extension courses.

Anyone wishing to explore the revolutionary discoveries of Dianetics is invited to watch three films on the subject: "Dianetics: An Introduction," "The Dianetics of Grief," and "What is Dianetics?"

Produced by Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, these films are broadcast on the Scientology Network at DIRECTV 320 and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, through satellite television, mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/films-on-scientology-principles/dianetics-introduction.html

https://www.scientology.tv/films/dianetics/dianetics-of-grief.html

https://www.scientology.tv/films-on-scientology-principles/dianetics-introduction.html

MULTIMEDIA:

*VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dt9SyNpirdo

72 years ago, an article in Astounding Science Fiction hit the newsstands in April and set the stage for the explosive launch of "Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health," which rolled out in May.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

For Earth Day, the Church of Scientology Shares the Work of an Ecological Visionary

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- An episode of Meet a Scientologist on the Scientology Network documents how Peter Vajda is preserving the Earth's resources by salvaging barren farmland.

Each year on April 22, Earth Day raises awareness of the importance of safeguarding the environment. This year's theme is "Invest in Our Planet." And Scientologist Peter Vajda has devoted his life to doing just that.

"With the population growing and productive farmland decreasing, this is a race to save future generations," says Vajda in his episode of Meet a Scientologist on the Scientology Network.

Heavy chemical pesticides and synthetic fertilizers are leaving a devastating wake of barren farmlands. But Vajda is reversing this blight with his award-winning, organically based technology. His eco-friendly solution to desertification is gaining international recognition.

"Agriculture is in my veins," says Vajda. Fond memories of picking apples in his grandfather's orchard as a child led him to study agricultural engineering in college. But it wasn't until he graduated that Vajda realized that in 60 years there may very well be no apples - or any viable agriculture. The heavy use of chemicals and pesticides is destroying much of the world's best farmlands, creating a threat to the future of all forms of life on Earth.

Vajda began working for a company at the forefront of soil rejuvenation and eventually became its chief executive officer. With him at the helm, driving research and development, the company's transformation of barren farmland brings new hope that the world's food production can be brought back from the brink of extinction.

Meet a Scientologist is an original series airing on Scientology Network. Episodes provide an in-depth look into the lives of individual Scientologists at the forefront of art, science, fashion, entertainment and technology.

The Scientology Network debuted in 2018. Since launching with a special episode featuring Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige, Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages.

Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross-section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network can be streamed at Scientology.tv and is available through satellite television, mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/meet-a-scientologist/peter-vajda.html

An episode of Meet a Scientologist on the Scientology Network documents how Peter Vajda is preserving the Earth's resources by salvaging barren farmland. Each year on April 22, Earth Day raises awareness of the importance of safeguarding the environment.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Church of Scientology Festival: Fun for Thousands This Easter in East Hollywood

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Church of Scientology Los Angeles hosted a family fun day April 17 to make the holiday memorable for local families. L. Ron Hubbard Way was filled with music and laughter with some 5,000 guests from across Los Angeles joining parishioners and staff of the Church of Scientology for a joyful Easter celebration.

Among the most popular features were sack races and donut-eating contests. The bouncy house, egg decorating tables, face painting, arts and crafts booths and the petting zoo were filled all afternoon.

There was cotton candy, colorful shaved ices, and other complimentary treats along with some of the neighborhood's favorite food trucks.

Live music competed with the laughter and squeals of the children as they raced for the Easter eggs. And with new hunts scheduled throughout the afternoon, children of all ages came away with buckets and baskets filled.

To ensure lasting memories of the day, the Easter bunny and two giant butterflies on stilts provided plenty of photo ops.

Comments on the Church's Instagram included: "This is too cute!!" "The donut eating contest omg!" "Wow, wow, wow, jam-packed! I love it!!!" "This is amazing!!!!!" and "Best Easter Event!"

The fun took place all up and down L. Ron Hubbard Way, which also hosted a spring fair and celebration of the 25th anniversary of the street's dedication last weekend.

At the Sunset Boulevard corner of L. Ron Hubbard Way is the Church of Scientology of Los Angeles, featured in Inside a Church of Scientology on the Scientology Network, which was part of the special when Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige launched the network in honor of L. Ron Hubbard's birthday in 2018.

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles is an Ideal Scientology Organization, configured to service Scientologists in their ascent to spiritual freedom and serve as a home for the entire community-a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations.

For information on upcoming events, visit the Church of Scientology Los Angeles website, Facebook or Instagram.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/church-of-scientology-festival-fun-for-thousands-this-easter-in-east-hollywood.html

https://www.scientology.tv/series/inside-scientology/inside-a-church.html

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles hosted a family fun day April 17 to make the holiday memorable for local families. L. Ron Hubbard Way was filled with music and laughter with some 5,000 guests from across Los Angeles joining parishioners and staff of the Church of Scientology for a joyful Easter celebration.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Drug Prevention Volunteers Say Truth is the Best Answer to Dangerous New Drugs

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Scientology Churches promoted drug education on World Health Day April 7, with seminars, presentations and drug education distribution events to prevent drug abuse and overdose deaths.

With a powerful new synthetic opioid known as ISO (isotonitazene) leaving disaster in its wake, the need for effective drug education and prevention has never been greater than now. Scientologists used this UN Day to introduce their communities to a program that can save lives.

The Pennsylvania-based Center for Forensic Science Research and Education estimates that ISO is 10 times more powerful than fentanyl, the drug responsible for the spike in overdose deaths in the United States.

Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody warned the drug is "so strong that it can kill just by coming in contact with someone's skin or being accidentally inhaled. ISO has already been linked to overdose deaths in Florida." And she urges people to "please, never take any illicit drug and know that using just one time could cost you your life."

The UK has also seen an increase in drug poisoning deaths during the pandemic with approximately two-thirds of the deaths related to opioids. The British Medical Journal states isotonitazene "is 500 times more potent than morphine."

Scientology Churches and Missions sponsor chapters of Foundation for a Drug-Free World. Volunteers share the Foundation's Truth About Drugs initiative with local families, educators, school resource officers and anyone wishing to prevent senseless overdose deaths and help youth get off to a good start in life.

One of the key elements of the Foundation's drug education and prevention materials is the award-winning Truth About Drugs-Real People, Real Stories documentary. It features interviews with former addicts who lived to tell the tale. And a common thread in their stories is that:

* No one sets out to become a drug addict.

* Drug pushers will say anything to get you to experiment with a drug.

* If they had any idea what would happen to them, they would never have started.

It isn't enough to tell kids to "say 'No' to drugs." They have to understand why. That is what makes the Truth About Drugs so effective. By watching the videos and reading the youth-friendly booklets, young people can make the self-determined decision to do what experts say is the only foolproof way of avoiding overdose deaths in this age of designer additives: Simply do not experiment with illicit drugs in the first place.

Foundation for a Drug-Free World is a secular nonprofit public benefit corporation that empowers youth and adults with factual information about drugs so they can make informed decisions and live drug-free. The Foundation oversees the Truth About Drugs campaign and coordinates an international network of volunteers brought together by their common purpose to create a drug-free world.

Grown to a network of thousands of volunteers in more than 200 chapters around the world, the Foundation partners with some 1,800 groups and organizations.

The Scientology Network original series Voices for Humanity documents the kind of change this initiative can accomplish:

* In San Diego, California, Dr. Beatriz Villarreal uses the initiative to combat drug abuse by educating families on the dangers of drugs.

* In his native Massachusetts and throughout the U.S. Darren Tessitore works with driver's education programs to take action against drug-related accidents.

* In New York City, the father and daughter team Dr. Bernard and Meghan Fialkoff have reached thousands of innercity schoolchildren with the Truth About Drugs.

* And from Colombia to Malaysia, South Africa to the Philippines and Kenya to India, drug prevention activists are empowering generations of youth with an initiative that continues to grow exponentially at the grassroots level.

Learn more about the Truth About Drugs initiative and Foundation for a Drug-Free World on the Scientology Network. Since launching with a special episode featuring Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige, Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/episodes/

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/the-truth-about-drugs.html

https://www.drugfreeworld.org/

Scientology Churches promoted drug education on World Health Day April 7, with seminars, presentations and drug education distribution events to prevent drug abuse and overdose deaths. With a powerful new synthetic opioid known as ISO (isotonitazene) leaving disaster in its wake, the need for effective drug education and prevention has never been greater than now.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Celebrating the 25th Anniversary of L. Ron Hubbard Way in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- State and city officials joined Scientologists, friends and community leaders from across Los Angeles in East Hollywood April 9 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the dedication of L. Ron Hubbard Way, named for the Founder of the Scientology religion.

The street is home to the Church of Scientology Los Angeles and advanced Scientology Churches that serve parishioners from across America, and is a crossroads for the world's largest community of Scientologists.

City and state officials who took part in the original dedication were among the crowd celebrating the milestone.

Those attending included Nate Holden, who served four years in the California State Senate and 16 years on the Los Angeles City Council. Also participating was Keith Moze, General Manager of Streets L.A.; Sylvia Cunliffe, then L.A. City General Services Manager; and Baydsar Thomasian, district consultant to State Senator Maria Elena Durazo. Ms. Thomasian was senior deputy to District 13 Councilmember Jackie Goldberg in 1997.

In preparation for the street's dedication 25 years ago, the Church renovated the entire city block from Sunset to Fountain. Hundreds of volunteers participated in the project which included undergrounding all electrical wiring, pouring new sidewalks, landscaping the tree-lined avenue, and creating the street itself by laying 150,000 bricks.

Ms. Thomasian, who helped coordinate the project between the Church and L.A. City Council, said, "It is great to be here to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the creation of L. Ron Hubbard Way. Few other staffers here today can say they were actually part of the creation and I'm honored to say I was." She presented the Church with a California flag flown over the California State Capitol in Sacramento on behalf of State Senator Durazo.

In addition to serving as a home to Scientologists from across Greater Los Angeles, L. Ron Hubbard Way is also a community hub, hosting festivals, markets, and family fun days for East Hollywood families. Case in point, that same afternoon, L. Ron Hubbard Way featured the Church's annual Spring Fair, open free of charge to the community. It included an artisan market and some of L.A.'s favorite food trucks. And for the kids, there were pony rides, face painting, a petting zoo, and other games and treats.

For more information on L. Ron Hubbard Way, watch Inside a Church of Scientology on the Scientology Network, which debuted the day the network launched in honor of the Founder's birthday in 2018. Also featured in the launch special was an introduction to the network by Mr. David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/inside-scientology/inside-a-church.html

https://www.lronhubbard.org/

VIDEOS:

https://youtu.be/8XnzFn688js

https://youtu.be/dziK04-9qqQ

State and city officials joined Scientologists, friends and community leaders from across Los Angeles in East Hollywood April 9 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the dedication of L. Ron Hubbard Way, named for the Founder of the Scientology religion. City and state officials who took part in the original dedication were among the crowd celebrating the milestone.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

How a Scientology Volunteer Minister from Nepal Brought Help to His Nation

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Seven years ago this month, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake devastated Nepal. A Scientology Volunteer Minister led rescue workers, Scouts and volunteers who arrived from across the world on a mission to save lives.

Within 24 hours of the earthquake that rocked Nepal on April 25, 2015, killing some 8,800, Scientology Volunteer Minister Binod Sharma mobilized an emergency response team in Kathmandu. He led his volunteers as they combed through the rubble of his ravaged city for survivors. And he went on to lead an international team of rescue workers and volunteers to help his people. His story is documented in an episode of Voices for Humanity on the Scientology Network.

Sharma acted as interpreter for Los Topos, the famous Mexican search and rescue team, and Colombia's National Circle of Aid Technicians (CINAT), who were brought to Nepal by Volunteer Ministers international headquarters in Los Angeles. And he coordinated their activities with the work of Volunteer Ministers arriving from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and as far away as Australia, Denmark and America.

Among those arriving were EMTs, nurses and doctors, and Sharma's team helped them provide needed medical care and first aid to those injured by the quake in Kathmandu. And the Volunteer Ministers went with them to remote towns and villages cut off by rubble and the remains of destroyed vehicles that blocked the roads through treacherous mountain passes.

They provided food and temporary shelter and helped rebuild homes and schools.

Sharma led his teams across forgotten villages and districts hit by disaster, ultimately bringing help to 4 million Nepalese. And to bring permanent help, he established a Volunteer Minister headquarters in Kathmandu training more than 150 Volunteer Minister groups across his nation.

In recognition of Sharnma's humanitarian work, Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige presented him with the International Association of Scientologists Freedom Medal in 2017.

The Church of Scientology Volunteer Ministers program is a religious social service created in the mid-1970s by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard.

A Volunteer Minister's mandate is to be "a person who helps his fellow man on a volunteer basis by restoring truth and spiritual values to the lives of others." Their creed: "A Volunteer Minister does not shut his eyes to the pain, evil and injustice of existence. Rather, he is trained to handle these things and help others achieve relief from them and new personal strength as well."

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/binod-sharma.html

Seven years ago this month, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake devastated Nepal. A Scientology Volunteer Minister led rescue workers, Scouts and volunteers who arrived from across the world on a mission to save lives. Sharma acted as interpreter for Los Topos, the famous Mexican search and rescue team.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Happiness Is Something Worth Sharing Says Madrid-Based Scientology Foundation

MADRID, Spain /ScoopCloud/ -- Volunteers from the Scientology Churches and Missions of Spain and the nonprofit Fundacion Mejora reach out to their communities with The Way to Happiness to improve the quality of life.

"True joy and happiness are valuable," begins The Way to Happiness, a common-sense guide to better living, written by author, humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard in 1981.

Some 200 years earlier, Thomas Jefferson penned the Declaration of Independence including the pursuit of happiness as an unalienable right.

And in 2011, the UN General Assembly echoed these concepts by adopting a resolution recognizing happiness as a "fundamental human goal."

But is there a way to achieve happiness - a tool by which anyone may guarantee or improve his or her chances of benefiting from this cherished state? That is the purpose of The Way to Happiness and the reason the booklet has inspired an international movement.

"Happiness lies in engaging in worthwhile activities," wrote Mr. Hubbard in the epilogue of The Way to Happiness, a book containing 21 basic principles or precepts that "point the way to a less dangerous and happier life." So on International Day of Happiness, the Mejora Foundation and volunteers from Scientology Churches and Missions of Spain joined Scientologists and like-minded people the world over who marked the day by sharing this booklet in their neighborhoods and the busy streets of their cities.

They encouraged those they shared the booklet with to give copies to friends whose happiness is important to them. And they invited them to take a free online course on The Way to Happiness Foundation website.

They also suggested they visit the Scientology Network, which features the award-winning The Way to Happiness book on film in 17 languages. The network also documents the work of humanitarians who use The Way to Happiness to uplift their communities and countries.

Episodes show how the booklet helped:

* Broker peace among warring gangs in South Central Los Angeles

* Reduce crime in inner-city Denver neighborhoods

* Transform a poverty-stricken village in Zambia into one on its way to sustainability

* Awaken hardened Colombian soldiers - once notorious for their extrajudicial killing of innocent civilians - to their responsibility for preserving the lives and welfare of their fellow citizens.

Foundacion Mejora (Foundation for the Improvement of Life, Culture and Society) was established in 2015 by the Church of Scientology of Spain. It is registered in that country's National Registry of Foundations. And in 2019 it achieved consultive status to the United Nations Economic and Social Council, ECOSOC, one of the six principal organs of the United Nations.

The National Church of Scientology of Spain was dedicated in 2004 by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige. It is an Ideal Scientology Church, located in the heart of Madrid. It is configured to service Scientologists in their ascent to spiritual freedom and serve as a home for the entire community-a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift citizens of all denominations.

LEARN MORE

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/the-way-to-happiness.html

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/FN34zm5375Y

Volunteers from the Scientology Churches and Missions of Spain and the nonprofit Fundacion Mejora reach out to their communities with The Way to Happiness to improve the quality of life.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

If the Slave Trade Was Abolished, Why Do an Estimated 40 Million Still Live in Slavery?

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- March 25 was International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Churches of Scientology mark this day by raising awareness of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. And with good reason.

An estimated 13 million people were captured and sold as slaves during the transatlantic slave trade between the 15th and 19th centuries. But the United Nations estimates some 40 million live in slavery today.

According to Dr. Katarina Schwarz, associate director of the Rights Lab's Law and Policy Programme at the University of Nottingham, England, 94 of the 193 UN member states appear not to have made slavery a crime. Schwartz published an article co-written by Jean Allain, professor of international law at Monash University in Melbourne, Australia; and Andrea Nicholson, Nottingham Research Fellow at the University of Nottingham; on the state of human trafficking, based on research compiled by the Antislavery in Domestic Legislation Database.

They found that although 96 percent of all UN Member Nations have some form of domestic anti-trafficking legislation:

* 94 states do not have legislation prohibiting slavery.

* 112 states do not have penal provisions punishing forced labor.

* 170 have not criminalized institutions and practices similar to slavery.

* 180 have not enacted legislation criminalizing servitude.

* In all these countries, there is no criminal law to punish those subjecting others to extreme forms of human exploitation.

In 1969, Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard observed: "Very few governments have implemented any part of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. These governments have not grasped that their very survival depends utterly upon adopting such reforms and thus giving their peoples a cause, a civilization worth supporting, worth their patriotism."

Universal Declaration of Human Rights article 4 states, "No one shall be held in slavery or servitude; slavery and the slave trade shall be prohibited in all their forms."

But as Mr. Hubbard also pointed out, "Human rights must be made a fact, not an idealistic dream," a statement borne out by these Antislavery in Domestic Legislation Database statistics.

Scientologists believe that raising awareness of human rights is the ultimate answer to this and other forms of abuse. They take part in educational initiatives to increase understanding of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. They work to mandate human rights education in their nations' schools. And they urge their governments to enact legislation to ensure the articles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights have the force of law.

The Scientology Network features the work of human rights activists who have adopted these programs to end human trafficking and other abuse. Their work, and the inroads they have made, is demonstrated in episodes of the original TV series Voices for Humanity.

THESE INCLUDE:

* Mary Shuttleworth, who witnessed rampant human rights abuses growing up in apartheid South Africa. Committed to ending human trafficking and other violations of human rights, she founded Youth for Human Rights International to teach young people around the world the importance of human rights.

* Cynthia Guerra, who grew up in Guatemala during a civil war that was notorious for rampant human rights violations carried out by its military. An estimated 20 percent of Guatemalan children, some as young as seven, are subject to forced labor. To counter this and other human rights abuses, Guerra leads a nationwide program to educate civilians, police, and the military on human rights.

* Braulio Vargas, whose episode exposes a hidden side of Costa Rica with an eye-opening account of the problems plaguing many of its citizens - from human trafficking to homelessness. His work in promoting human rights is raising awareness across the nation.

* Raúl Arias, who came face to face with human rights violations when he and a friend were nearly abducted by kidnappers. Later, heartbroken by the stories of those who lost family members to human trafficking, he confronted the issue head-on by becoming executive director of Youth for Human Rights Mexico.

The Church of Scientology and its members sponsor one of the world's broadest human rights education and public information initiatives, United for Human Rights, and its program for young people, Youth for Human Rights. Through this support, they ensure these educational materials are available free of charge to all.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.org/how-we-help/human-rights/

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/6XXGF_V8_7M

March 25 was International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Churches of Scientology mark this day by raising awareness of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. And with good reason.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

How a Scientology Volunteer Minister and a Christian Priest Worked Together to Help Uganda

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- At an open house at the Church of Scientology Amsterdam earlier this month, held in commemoration of World Civil Defense Day, Volunteer Minister Jan-Maarten Kruijt introduced those attending to the Scientology Volunteer Ministers program. He shared how he and a Christian priest worked together to help Uganda communities overcome challenges and increase sustainability.

The Scientology Volunteer Ministers program is a religious social service founded in the mid-1970s by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard.

Kruijt recently went to Uganda to help Rev. Samuel Richard Sembuya establish and train a new Volunteer Ministers group.

Last year, Rev. Sembuya came across the Scientology website on the Internet and enrolled on one of its free online Tools for Life courses.

On completing the first course, Sembuya felt so empowered with what he learned, he continued taking one after another and rapidly learned all 19 subjects.

The priest formed a local Volunteer Ministers group and reached out to the international headquarters of the Scientology Volunteer Ministers whose website offers on-site seminars.

Rev. Sembuya and his team confront many challenges. UNICEF estimates that 55 percent of children in Uganda age 0-4 live in poverty and 24 percent in extreme poverty. Some 20,000 people are crowded into eight slum areas around Jinja.

"A Volunteer Minister does not shut his eyes to the pain, evil and injustice of existence," wrote Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard in announcing the Volunteer Ministers program. "Rather, he is trained to handle these things and help others achieve relief from them and new personal strength as well."

The courses Rev. Sembuya completed are the backbone of this training.

Jan-Maarten Kruijt always wanted to use his Volunteer Minister skills in Africa. So when he learned from a friend about Rev. Sembuya's request, he volunteered to go.

Kruijt told those gathered for the Civil Defense Day open house of his adventures in Uganda, where Sembuya had booked three weeks of daily seminars and meetings for his new friend. First Kruijt trained the priest's new disaster response group in each chapter of the Scientology Handbook, the textbook of the Volunteer Minister. There was plenty of practical experience in each of the skills they learned.

Kruijt went out with the group to supervise them as they used these tools in their community outreach until they were confident in the application of the technology and able to train others in its use.

The Jinja fire and police departments worked closely with the new Volunteer Ministers group, calling on them to help at fires and traffic accidents.

Kruijt also provided a seminar to teachers at a school where he trained them on the Technology of Study developed by Mr. Hubbard.

"In Uganda, I saw a lot of conflict among different religious and political groups," says Kruijt. "People are looking for something that can connect them across these lines - something they can believe in, regardless of what else they believe. More and more people are finding this now in the technology of Scientology."

The Church of Scientology Amsterdam provides open house events and other programs where community leaders, officials, nonprofits and other religious groups can work together to overcome challenges and provide service to the greater community.

The Church of Scientology Amsterdam is an Ideal Scientology Organization, configured to provide ideal facilities to service Scientologists on their ascent to greater states of spiritual freedom and to serve as a home for the entire community and a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations. The new Church was dedicated by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige in October 2017.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.volunteerministers.org

https://www.volunteerministers.org/solutions/

https://www.scientology-amsterdam.org/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/nGRWeCFOtI8

At an open house at the Church of Scientology Amsterdam earlier this month, held in commemoration of World Civil Defense Day, Volunteer Minister Jan-Maarten Kruijt introduced those attending to the Scientology Volunteer Ministers program. He shared how he and a Christian priest worked together to help Uganda communities overcome challenges and increase sustainability.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Church of Scientology of the Valley Celebrates its 5th Anniversary in its New Home

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- With its reputation as a hub for the entire community, the Church of Scientology of the Valley looks forward to helping neighbors turn the post-COVID new normal into "flourish and prosper." Following the dedication of its new home in San Fernando Valley March 19, 2017, the Church of Scientology of the Valley rapidly became a vibrant hub of community activities.

Then came the pandemic, and the hardships it created for local businesses, groups and families.

But with the recent relaxing of restrictions, the Church is celebrating this year's anniversary by helping community partners and individuals turn the page on the past two years. Its doors are open to all. And it offers humanitarian initiatives and life improvement courses to provide tools to tackle these challenges and thrive.

The Church of Scientology of the Valley is featured in an episode of "Destination Scientology." San Fernando Valley, once vast swaths of citrus orchards and old Hollywood movie sets, has morphed into a land of aerospace pioneers, global entertainment giants and diverse, growing communities. Known the world over as home to major film and television studios, what really makes the Valley tick is the diverse people who live and work there.

This incredible mix of ethnicities, backgrounds and artistic expertise has given rise to a culture all its own. And building strong ties among the community, giving them tools to create a better world, is the challenge this Church embraces on a daily basis.

Whether opening its 1,000-seat auditorium for use by local nonprofits, forging a partnership with local police officers to combat crime and drug use or racing to the front lines of a wildfire to support first responders, as this episode showcases, the Valley Church is the ultimate good neighbor.

Hear from local Scientologists, including those who work behind the scenes in the film and television industry, as they extol life in the Valley and the positive impact the Church has had on them and their community.

The Scientology Network debuted in 2018. Since launching with a special episode featuring Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige, Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages.

Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross-section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network can be streamed at Scientology.tv and is available through satellite television, mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/destination-scientology/the-valley.html

https://www.scientology-valley.org/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/1vQUCoy5Y_Y

With its reputation as a hub for the entire community, the Church of Scientology of the Valley looks forward to helping neighbors turn the post-COVID new normal into "flourish and prosper." The Church of Scientology of the Valley is featured in an episode of "Destination Scientology."

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

This Sunday, Join the Scientology Network for International Day of Happiness

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The United Nations created International Day of Happiness, March 20, because happiness is a fundamental human goal. But is there something that can help transform the desire for happiness into its accomplishment?

On International Day of Happiness, the Scientology Network invites anyone wishing to attain or increase their happiness or the happiness of others to take advantage of an all-day broadcasting marathon. The Network will feature "The Way to Happiness," the common-sense guide to better living by humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard. And it will spotlight the social betterment campaign the book inspires and its positive impact across the globe.

"The Way to Happiness" is built upon universally held beliefs and laws of morality, integrity and trust. It resonates with people of all faiths and none. And millions across 156 countries use the book to guide and improve their lives.

The network's International Happiness Day marathon includes "The Way to Happiness" book-on-film and episodes of the original series, Voices for Humanity, showcasing the movement in action. Episodes document how the booklet helped:

* Broker peace among warring gangs in South Central Los Angeles

* Reduce crime in inner-city Denver neighborhoods

* Transform a poverty-stricken village in Zambia into one on its way to sustainability

* Awaken hardened Colombian soldiers-once notorious for their extrajudicial killing of innocent civilians-to their responsibility for preserving the lives and welfare of their fellow citizens.

The full International Happiness Day schedule is available at www.Scientology.tv/schedule.

The Scientology Network debuted in 2018. Since launching with a special episode featuring Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige, Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages.

Satisfying curiosity about Scientology, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross-section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network can be streamed at Scientology.tv and is available through satellite television, mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/common-sense-for-life.html

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/episodes/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/FN34zm5375Y

The United Nations created International Day of Happiness, March 20, because happiness is a fundamental human goal. But is there something that can help transform the desire for happiness into its accomplishment?

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Church of Scientology Tampa Brings the Best of Today and the Past Together Under One Roof

TAMPA, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Dedicated March 13, 2011, in honor of the birthday of Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, the home of the Church of Scientology Tampa is a complex known as Ybor Square. More than a treasured cultural landmark, the building evokes an entire way of life.

As in many communities, the Church of Scientology of Tampa is housed in one of the city's most iconic buildings. Ybor Square is a National Historic Landmark, built in Ybor City, now a neighborhood in Tampa, in the late 1880s by city father Vincente Ybor. It was once the largest cigar factory in the world.

An episode of Destination Scientology on the Scientology Network shows how the Church carried out meticulous research and restored all historical elements of its new home. The Church holds the building in trust for the entire community, contributing to the pride and sense of continuity of Cuban-Americans.

This episode of Destination Scientology takes viewers inside the Church-a popular location on historical tours of the city.

And it shows how Tampa Scientologists:

* Work with community partners to eradicate drug abuse

* Raise awareness of human trafficking to protect victims in a region notorious for abuse

* And respond to natural and manmade disasters, making it clear how they earned and continue to merit the title of "Hurricane Heroes."

Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige dedicated the 88,000-square-foot Church, located just a half-hour from Clearwater. As such, it serves as a model for thousands of Scientologists arriving at the religion's international spiritual headquarters each week from across the globe. Here they can see just how much a local Church of Scientology can accomplish.

Destination: Scientology is an original series on the Scientology Network. Each episode brings the viewer inside a Church of Scientology, showcasing the diversity of our Churches and the cooperation that weaves every Church of Scientology into the local community fabric.

Since launching, the Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages. Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320 and can be streamed on Scientology.tv, on mobile apps, and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/destination-scientology/tampa.html

https://www.scientology-tampa.org/

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/DZHW9wn5teQ

Dedicated March 13, 2011, in honor of the birthday of Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, the home of the Church of Scientology Tampa is a complex known as Ybor Square. More than a treasured cultural landmark, the building evokes an entire way of life.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Celebrating L. Ron Hubbard’s Birthday and the 70th Anniversary of the Scientology Religion

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Millions across the globe celebrate March 13, L. Ron Hubbard's birthday, to honor the man who has touched their lives in countless ways. This year marks the 70th anniversary of Scientology, the world's youngest major religion, adding another dimension to the celebration.

L. Ron Hubbard once remarked that there are only two tests of a life well lived: "Did he do what he intended?" and "Were people glad he lived?"

He also believed that "wisdom is meant for anyone who wishes to reach for it. It is the servant of the commoner and king alike and should never be regarded with awe."

He shared the knowledge he discovered, recording his research in more than 10,000 authored works and the 3,000 recorded lectures of Dianetics and Scientology.

And while Scientologists the world over honor his legacy with celebrations in Scientology Churches and Missions, many millions more recognize him for the humanitarian initiatives derived from his work.

L. Ron Hubbard's common-sense moral code, The Way to Happiness, transformed a poverty-stricken African village. That same booklet helped forge peace between warring gangs in the streets of South Central Los Angeles. And it has reduced recidivism among the most hardened criminals throughout Mexico.

Teachers in Nigeria remember L. Ron Hubbard for the technology of study that has given them the tools to salvage entire generations.

And officials, religious leaders and entire towns and cities across South Africa know him as the man who inspired the Scientology Volunteer Ministers who have empowered a movement throughout the country with Scientology Tools for Life training.

L. Ron Hubbard earned the Publishers Weekly Century Award for the book Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health. The magazine describes it as "perhaps the best-selling non-Christian book of all time in the West."

Smithsonian magazine lists L. Ron Hubbard among the 11 most influential religious figures in American history and one of the 100 most significant Americans of all time.

To learn more about L. Ron Hubbard and the religion he founded, visit the Scientology Network.

Several of L. Ron Hubbard's books on film are available:

The Problems of Work: Scientology Applied to the Workaday World, The Way to Happiness, and Scientology: The Fundamentals of Thought.

And the series L. Ron Hubbard Library Presents includes filmed versions of some of his most popular essays and articles including "My Philosophy," "What is Greatness?" and "The Aims of Scientology."

Winner of two Aurora Platinum Best of Show awards, this series illustrates L. Ron Hubbard's key observations and groundbreaking discoveries into the mind, spirit and life.

The Scientology Network debuted March 12, 2018, in honor of L. Ron Hubbard's birthday.

Since launching with a special episode featuring Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige, the Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320 and can be streamed on Scientology.tv, on mobile apps, and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/l-ron-hubbard-library-presents/

https://www.scientology.tv/series/l-ron-hubbard-in-his-own-voice/

Millions across the globe celebrate March 13, L. Ron Hubbard's birthday, to honor the man who has touched their lives in countless ways. This year marks the 70th anniversary of Scientology, the world's youngest major religion, adding another dimension to the celebration.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Celebrate L. Ron Hubbard’s Birthday by Doing Something Special for You

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Scientology Founder 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 of the shadows which darken his days." In honor of L. Ron Hubbard's birthday, March 13, you are invited to watch a film on the Scientology Network that may very well change your life.

Is it possible to be happy? This is a question as old as Man. But in our hectic modern world, it seems to defy a positive answer. Yet, as is often the case, the more complicated the problem the simpler the solution. And so it is when it comes to happiness.

In a quarter of an hour, watching the film, "Is It Possible to Be Happy?" and listening as L. Ron Hubbard not only answers the question affirmatively but shows you how, you will walk away with a tool that can change your life.

This is the only essay Mr. Hubbard ever recorded. He originally presented it on radio and Scientology Media Productions brings it to life on film-in his own voice.

If anything, the answer to this question is even more relevant today than when he originally wrote and recorded it, as evidenced by spiraling drug overdose deaths and suicide rates.

This film is part of the original series "L. Ron Hubbard Library Presents." The series includes filmed versions of some of his most popular essays and articles including "My Philosophy," "What is Greatness?" and "The Aims of Scientology."

Winner of two Aurora Platinum Best of Show awards, the films in this series illustrate L. Ron Hubbard's key observations and groundbreaking discoveries into the mind, spirit and life.

Learn how L. Ron Hubbard's deeply held conviction-that Man's accumulated knowledge and wisdom should be openly shared for the benefit of all humanity-led to his founding of Scientology, the world's youngest major religion.

Since launching with a special episode featuring Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige, the Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320 and can be streamed on Scientology.tv, on mobile apps, and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/l-ron-hubbard-library-presents/is-it-possible-to-be-happy.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KilKa4S9qkg

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KilKa4S9qkg

Caption: L. Ron Hubbard Library Presents: 'Is It Possible to Be Happy?' Learn How!

Scientology Founder 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 of the shadows which darken his days." In honor of L. Ron Hubbard's birthday, March 13, you are invited to watch a film on the Scientology Network that may very well change your life.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/