Author Archives: Church of Scientology International

Curious About Scientology, Hundreds Learned More on Copenhagen Culture Night

COPENHAGEN, Denmark /ScoopCloud/ -- The Church of Scientology Denmark was packed with visitors wishing to learn more about the Scientology religion at the annual "Kulturnatten."

Culture Night in Copenhagen is a unique festival where the Church of Scientology of Denmark is among the more than 250 museums, theatres, libraries, churches, ministries and parks throughout the city that welcome the public to experience the many aspects of the city's cultural life. In fact, it is one of Copenhagen's most well-attended cultural events in a city renowned for its creativity, craftsmanship and culture.

Scientology staff and volunteers toured hundreds of visitors who stopped by to find out more about the world's youngest major religion. And they were not disappointed.

In launching the Scientology television network in 2018, Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige said, "There's a lot of talk about us. And we get it. People are curious. Well, we want to answer your questions, because, frankly, whatever you've heard, if you haven't heard it from us, I can assure you, we are not what you expect," a statement confirmed over and over again that October night.

Visitors were encouraged to ask questions, which were answered by the tour guides and the video presentations in the Scientology Information Center just off the entrance to the Church.

It was as much fun for the hosts as for those touring.

"I must have toured 100 people," said one of the volunteers, "and they all asked relevant and interested questions." Comments like "I would really like to know what Scientology actually is," were frequent.

One of the most popular features was the video display on the life and work of Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard. Another was the demonstration of the E-meter, a device used by a Scientology minister or a Scientology minister-in-training to help the individual locate and confront areas of spiritual upset. People lined up for a demonstration of how the meter worked and were often amazed at how accurately it pinpointed areas that were troubling them in life.

The Church of Scientology Denmark opened its doors in 2017, when Mr. Miscavige dedicated the building in the heart of the city.

Those who missed visiting on Culture Night are invited to drop by any time at Nytorv 11. Or watch an episode of Destination Scientology about the Church of Scientology Denmark.

This Church, like all Scientology Churches, is open every day of the year. And all are welcome to stop in for a tour of the Scientology Information Center, to ask questions, or for a free personality test or an introductory film or course.

The Church of Scientology Denmark is designed to provide ideal facilities for Scientologists on their ascent to higher states of spiritual freedom and to serve as a home for the entire community -- a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.org/our-help-is-yours/

https://en.scientology-denmark.org/

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

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

The Church of Scientology Denmark was packed with visitors wishing to learn more about the Scientology religion at the annual "Kulturnatten." Culture Night in Copenhagen is one of Copenhagen's most well-attended cultural events in a city renowned for its creativity, craftsmanship and culture.

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

Scientology Church Honors and Celebrates the Indigenous Michoacán Culture

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- East Hollywood's L. Ron Hubbard Way was transformed into a street festival in honor of the Day of the Dead and the traditions and culture of the indigenous people of the Mexican State of Michoacán. More than a thousand guests filled the street for the celebration, a Michoacán tradition that honors the ancestors and all who have passed away. It was also an affirmation of the culture of the Purépecha, an indigenous people of Michoacán, hosted by the Monarca Purépecha Association and the Church of Scientology Los Angeles.

Artisans displayed handicrafts, from jewelry to traditional clothing, in a street fair along both sides of the street. They set up next to food stalls where tantalizing aromas invited visitors to sample some of the region's favorite foods.

There was churipo, a spicey stew prepared with chunks of beef, vegetables and chilis. And pozole, a dish made from hominy and meat, often seasoned and garnished with shredded lettuce or cabbage, chili peppers, onion, garlic, radishes, avocado, salsa or limes. There were also tamales and tacos dorados, with ingredients tightly rolled up in tortillas and fried in oil. And to top it off, a steaming cup of chocolate atole, made with Mexican chocolate, water, and milk, spiced with cinnamon sticks and anise, sweetened with piloncillo, a raw form of pure cane sugar, and thickened with corn flour.

Along the street were ofrendas, flowered altars built on the Day of the Dead to honor those who have passed. They are usually made of marigolds, which blossom at this time of the year in Michoacán, and contain photos and other memorabilia to welcome those who have died and celebrate their lives.

Octavio Chavez Aguirre, Mayor of Lagunillas in the state of Michoacán, commissioned a custom artisanal brass plate and had it presented to the Church of Scientology in recognition of Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard and his support of the customs, traditions and rights of people of all cultures.

While this celebration was taking place on L. Ron Hubbard Way, the Guatemalan community was also marking the Day of the Dead in a commemoration reflecting their own unique culture in an event space set up in front of the Church of Scientology Los Angeles.

Los Angeles Scientology Churches serve as hubs for religious organizations, like-minded groups and community leaders all over the Southland, welcoming all cultures, all religions and all nationalities to create a positive Los Angeles.

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles, dedicated by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige in 2010, is featured in an episode of Inside Scientology 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.

For more information, visit the website of the Church of Scientology Los Angeles or the new interactive timeline at Scientology.org/our-help-is-yours/.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.org/our-help-is-yours/

https://www.scientology-losangeles.org

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

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/B0xMnowNCYo

East Hollywood's L. Ron Hubbard Way was transformed into a street festival in honor of the Day of the Dead and the traditions and culture of the indigenous people of the Mexican State of Michoacán. More than a thousand guests filled the street for the celebration, a Michoacán tradition that honors the ancestors and all who have passed away.

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

Join the Drug-Free Heroes and Help Protect Youth from Drug Overdose

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Church of Scientology Los Angeles hosts the second annual National Red Ribbon Week Drug-Free Heroes Awards to help end the deadly crisis that is threatening the lives of L.A. kids. Los Angeles was rocked in September by the death of a 15-year-old student who died in school after taking a single pill laced with fentanyl. She was the seventh L.A. teenager to overdose on fentanyl in the previous 30 days.

Can anything be done to prevent such tragedies? Foundation for a Drug-Free World says "Yes." That is why the Church of Scientology and the L.A.-based Strike Out Against Drugs nonprofit joined forces to hold their 2nd annual Drug-Free Heroes Awards Gala at the Church of Scientology Los Angeles in celebration of National Red Ribbon Week.

Event keynote speaker and awardee Mr. Henry Lozano is an example of what one man or woman can do to reverse this catastrophe. For decades, countless children's lives have been saved because of his work.

Lozano is the founder of National Red Ribbon week, the nation's oldest and largest drug prevention awareness program. He also served as director of USA Freedom Corps under President George W. Bush, has held the position of director of Los Angeles County Teen Challenge and Urban Ministries Initiative since 2011, and is active in Californians for Drug-Free Youth and Points of Light Foundation.

National Red Ribbon Week honors the life and sacrifice of Enrique (Kiki) S. Camarena, a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agent working undercover in the 1980s to close the pipeline of deadly drugs into the U.S. from Mexico. His operation was compromised and in February 1985, Camarena was kidnapped. A month later, his body was found.

Lozano, a high school friend of Camarena, launched Camarena Clubs in their hometown of Calexico, California, in coordination with Congressman Duncan Hunter. Hundreds of club members wore red ribbons and pledged to lead drug-free lives to honor the sacrifices made by Camarena and others. In 1988, the campaign gained national prominence when President and Mrs. Ronald Reagan agreed to serve as honorary chairpersons.

Each year, during the last week in October, more than 80 million young people and adults show their commitment to healthy, drug-free living while wearing or displaying the Red Ribbon.

Betsy Davis, who coordinates the Drug-Free World Foundation's Los Angeles chapter, showed those attending how simple it is for anyone to take effective action to combat this deadly crisis.

The Foundation's Truth About Drug materials communicate the cold, hard truth about what drugs are and what they do in youth-friendly booklets and videos. The Truth About Drugs educator's manual enables anyone to provide fact-based drug education.

Cohosting the event was David Sanchez, founder of the L.A. nonprofit Strike Out Against Drugs. Since 2014, his organization has visited more than a hundred communities throughout Los Angeles and Southern California spreading the truth about drugs, reaching some 1.5 million people with an anti-drug message and changing the lives of countless kids. A documentary on his work and accomplishments is featured as an episode of Voices for Humanity on the Scientology Network.

Twelve new Drug-Free Heroes were awarded for their dedication and work to creating a Drug-Free Los Angeles and beyond. These included Beacon of Hope Sober Living cofounder Nick Salvato; Grace Sierra, Los Angeles-based Vice Consul of Honduras; and Alejandro Jose Letona Alvarado, Consul General of El Salvador and his staff.

Mr. Lozano presented Anna Grace Zaucha with the prestigious Gold Medal Presidential Volunteer Award including a medallion, certificate of achievement and a letter signed by President Biden in honor of her outstanding volunteer work to help youth remain drug-free.

The Church of Scientology and Scientologists support Foundation for a Drug-Free World, making it possible to provide the materials free of charge to teachers, community groups, churches, and anyone wishing to educate others on the facts behind drugs and addiction.

After extensive research on the effects of drugs, Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard wrote, "Research has demonstrated that the single most destructive element present in our current culture is drugs."

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles is designed to provide ideal facilities for Scientologists on their ascent to higher states of spiritual freedom and to serve as a home for the entire community -- a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations. The Church was dedicated by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige in 2010.

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles is featured in an episode of Inside Scientology 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.

For more information, visit the website of the Church of Scientology Los Angeles or the new interactive timeline at Scientology.org/our-help-is-yours/.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.org/our-help-is-yours/

https://www.scientology-losangeles.org

https://www.drugfreeworld.org

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/B0xMnowNCYo

Church of Scientology Los Angeles hosts the second annual National Red Ribbon Week Drug-Free Heroes Awards to help end the deadly crisis that is threatening the lives of L.A. kids. Event keynote speaker and awardee Mr. Henry Lozano is an example of what one man or woman can do to reverse this catastrophe. For decades, countless children's lives have been saved because of his work.

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

Hurricane Ian is Still a Disaster for Many Florida Families

FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Scientology Volunteer Ministers continue their disaster response in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian where recovery is far from over for many affected by the storm. The devastation they encounter is still so overwhelming that one of the volunteers describes how they have to go about helping those in areas hardest hit by the storm.

"It honestly starts with you have to pick up that first piece of debris," she told a CBS Miami TV correspondent covering the work that continues in Fort Myers Beach and nearby islands. "When you're confronted with this much confusion, you have to pick up one piece of debris and just keep going."

The Scientology Volunteer Minister pulled a photo binder and a framed photo out of the rubble of a home. "We're doing our best to find the owners," she said. "Sometimes the neighbors know, sometimes they don't. This was from somebody's home, this was inside somebody's house. It can be kind of emotional sometimes. Some of them are halfway okay. I don't know how they really survived," she says, cleaning off a framed photo that, apart from being completely covered in dried mud, looks otherwise unharmed.

Another team of Volunteer Ministers is distributing food, water and hygiene supplies to local households, helping families survive the economic challenges made worse by the hurricane. As one Fort Myers Beach resident put it, "It is hard enough at this time to have a baby. I can't really afford to pay for all the things I need. Your supplies will make such a difference."

A local couple was wary at first. There's been looting and other problems. However, the Volunteer Ministers seemed different they said, "And we felt like we could trust them. They had the brightest smiles. We've been waking up every morning to this devastation and these guys are just the bright part of our day. People keep coming to me and saying where did you find these guys?"

Another resident told them, "Now that you're here, I'm not overwhelmed anymore. I'm going to be able to survive this and put everything in my life back together. People helping people is the silver lining of the whole disaster."

Whether serving in their communities or on the other side of the world, the motto of the Scientology Volunteer Minister is "Something can be done about it." The program, created by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard in the mid-1970s, is sponsored by the Church of Scientology International as a religious social service and constitutes one of the world's most significant independent relief forces.

The Volunteer Minister "helps his fellow man on a volunteer basis by restoring purpose, truth and spiritual values to the lives of others."

Tampa Bay Volunteer Ministers earned their reputation as "Hurricane Heroes" with an award from the Governor of Florida after their response to Hurricane Charlie in 2004: "This certificate is presented to Scientology Volunteer Ministers of Tampa Bay Hurricane Heroes, in recognition of exemplary efforts that not only benefit your local community but also lend truth to the belief that all citizens of Florida can make a difference in the lives of those they serve."

They have continued to serve, responding to Hurricanes Rita and Katrina in 2005 and every local hurricane since, most recently Irma in 2017, Michael and Florence in 2018, as well as Hurricane Harvey in Texas in 2017, Maria in Puerto Rico in 2018, and Dorian in the Bahamas in 2019.

In June 2016, Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige dedicated the center for the Scientology Volunteer Ministers of Florida, along with a Scientology information center and six other humanitarian centers in downtown Clearwater. He said, "In times of disaster, whether affecting whole populations or a single household, our Volunteer Ministers prove on a daily basis that 'something can be done about it.' We do not discriminate. We do not judge. All we care to do is help. And, as demonstrated time and again, we deliver that help anywhere and everywhere."

For more information on the technology used by the Volunteer Minister in confronting and handling disasters, watch Scientology Tools for Life on the Scientology Network at DIRECTV 320 or at www.Scientology.tv.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.org/our-help-is-yours/

https://www.volunteerministers.org

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

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/nGRWeCFOtI8

Scientology Volunteer Ministers continue their disaster response in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian where recovery is far from over for many affected by the storm. The devastation they encounter is still so overwhelming that one of the volunteers describes how they have to go about helping those in areas hardest hit by the storm.

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

Day of the Dead Festival at the Church of Scientology Honors Ancestors

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Members of the Los Angeles Guatemala community gathered at the Church of Scientology Los Angeles this weekend for a ceremony and Fiambre -- a 500-year-old Guatemalan custom in which families join in creating a huge platter of food that is then shared by all. It is held each year as part of the observance of the Day of the Dead to remember and celebrate the lives of loved ones who have passed away.

This year's Fiambre weighed 900 pounds and is thought to be the largest ever created outside the borders of Guatemala. It included 80 Ingredients from a variety of meats and seafood to vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes, spices, juice, and an oil and vinegar dressing. It was followed by a traditional Guatemalan dessert made of ayote, a winter squash native to Guatemala, flavored with cinnamon and a cane sugar product called panela.

Los Angeles County is home to more than 200,000 Guatemalans making it the largest Guatemalan community in the U.S. -- a community that has grown more than 25 percent over the past decade.

Guatemalan-American community leaders believe in the importance of promoting the traditions, values and culture of the land of their ancestors some 2,700 miles away.

With entire generations growing up having little contact with their roots, a traditional Guatemalan Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration is one way to preserve these customs and keep the culture alive. Organizers believe that sharing the community's cultural heritage is vital to preserve the children's sense of identity and instill unity and national pride.

While families created the magnificent Fiambre, mural artist Oscar de Salcaja created a chalk painting in the Church of Scientology parking lot celebrating the culture of Guatemala.

"Thank you to the Church of Scientology for providing a place to keep our country's traditions alive," said Walter Batres, leader of the Guatemalan Migrants Network. "We want to preserve our heritage here in the United States and pass it down to our children. This is the second year we have been able to hold our Fiambre here at your Church and we are grateful for this."

The Church of Scientology has partnered with the Guatemalan community since the 1990s to provide tools to improve the quality of life and the future of Guatemalans in their homeland and Los Angeles.

Working together on food drives, the Church of Scientology Los Angeles and the Guatemalan Chamber of Commerce helped thousands of local families overcome food insecurity during the pandemic.

Those attending the Fiambre were invited to return for the Church's annual Community Holiday Lighting Ceremony Saturday, November 19, to help "flip the switch" on two city blocks of holiday lights and stay for the hot cocoa, live music, and winter-themed family fun.

Los Angeles Scientology Churches serve as hubs for religious organizations, like-minded groups and community leaders all over the Southland, welcoming all cultures, all religions and all nationalities to create a positive Los Angeles.

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles, dedicated by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige in 2010, is featured in an episode of Inside Scientology 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.

For more information, visit the website of the Church of Scientology Los Angeles or the new interactive timeline at Scientology.org/our-help-is-yours/.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.org/our-help-is-yours/

https://www.scientology-losangeles.org

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/B0xMnowNCYo

Members of the Los Angeles Guatemala community gathered at the Church of Scientology Los Angeles this weekend for a ceremony and Fiambre - a 500-year-old Guatemalan custom in which families join in creating a huge platter of food that is then shared by all. It is held each year as part of the observance of the Day of the Dead to remember and celebrate the lives of loved ones who have passed away.

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

Halloween Magic and Fun for Local Families at the Church of Scientology

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- A safe and exciting Halloween party for kids of all ages launched the holiday season at the Church of Scientology Los Angeles. Neighbors and friends joined staff and volunteers from the Church of Scientology to make Halloween 2022 a safe and memorable holiday for neighborhood children. More than 2,000 took part in the annual Halloween street fair in East Hollywood October 31 on L. Ron Hubbard Way.

There was plenty of popcorn and cotton candy. Ghouls, witches and skeletons joined Winnie-the-Pooh and a life-sized Minion to hand out 120,000 pieces of trick-or-treat candy and pose for Halloween photos. And face-painting and the reptile petting zoo vied with the pumpkin-carving booths for the most popular activity.

"So many people contributed to making this a special day for local children," said Susanna Kaneer, Church of Scientology Community Affairs Director for the greater Los Angeles area. "Neighbors and friends, local Scientologists, and Church staff who manned the trick-or-treat stations and photo booths and contributed candy and other treats had as much fun as the children and their parents. We love to see families attend our community events and then bring friends and neighbors with them to the next one to join the fun. That's what these events are all about. We are here for the community."

Families were also invited to come for the annual Community Holiday Lighting Ceremony Saturday, November 19, to help "flip the switch" on two city blocks of holiday lights and stay for the hot cocoa, live music, and winter-themed family fun.

Los Angeles Scientology Churches serve as hubs for religious organizations, like-minded groups and community leaders all over the Southland, welcoming all cultures, all religions and all nationalities to create a positive Los Angeles.

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles, dedicated by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige in 2010, is featured in an episode of Inside Scientology 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.

For more information, visit the website of the Church of Scientology Los Angeles or the new interactive timeline at Scientology.org/our-help-is-yours/.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.org/our-help-is-yours/

https://www.scientology-losangeles.org

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

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/B0xMnowNCYo

A safe and exciting Halloween party for kids of all ages launched the holiday season at the Church of Scientology Los Angeles. Neighbors and friends joined staff and volunteers from the Church of Scientology to make Halloween 2022 a safe and memorable holiday for neighborhood children. More than 2,000 took part in the annual Halloween street fair in East Hollywood October 31 on L. Ron Hubbard Way.

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

Religious Freedom in the Spotlight at a Peace Day Forum at the Church of Scientology

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Religious leaders discuss the importance of tolerance in today's world at a forum at the Church of Scientology Los Angeles. Freedom of religion or belief is often described as the "canary in the coal mine" -- a metaphor for a social issue that predicts danger or disaster. With a recent Pew Research Center study finding government restrictions on religion reaching a record high worldwide, the Church of Scientology Los Angeles marked International Day of Peace with an open house and forum on the importance of tolerance for people of faith.

The program featured religious leaders of several minority faiths whose members have experienced discrimination and worse because of their beliefs.

Speakers were Mr. Shahrooz Ash, trustee of the California Zoroastrian Center and founder of Lord of Wisdom, a cultural and educational organization that promotes Zoroastrian philosophy; Shaykh Qazi Asad, Pakistani-born spiritual leader and the first Islamic chaplain in the L.A. Police Department and L.A. County Sheriff's Department; and Professor Nirinjan Khalsa, executive director of the California Sikh Council, who has served as a commissioner on the City of Los Angeles Human Relations Commission for more than 18 years.

Each speaker described their own religious beliefs and the importance of religious freedom and tolerance to the adherents of their faiths.

According to the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism, hate crimes in major U.S. cities rose in the first half of 2022 for the third year running.

Results of a poll conducted by the Pearson Institute and The Associated Press National Opinion Research Center for Public Affairs Research, released in October 2022, found that most Americans believe misinformation leads to extreme views including violence based on race, religion or gender.

The Church of Scientology supports United for Human Rights (UHR), a human rights education initiative based on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Over the past 20 years, the Church has seen countless instances of increased tolerance and decreased social conflict with the implementation of human rights education. Scientologist Kelley Pomerantz, a United for Human Rights volunteer, introduced those attending the forum to the UHR educational materials.

Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard believed in the importance of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and that "human rights must be made a fact, not an idealistic dream."

In appreciation for the work of the Church of Scientology in forwarding these ideals, Mr. Ash presented the Church with a gold pin representing the Cyrus Cylinder.

A human rights documentary that is part of the United for Human Rights educational program describes the significance of the Cyrus Cylinder. After Cyrus the Great conquered Babylon in 539 B.C., he freed all slaves and proclaimed that people are free to choose their religion, a revolutionary action. These rights were enshrined in the clay cylinder that was discovered in Babylon in 1879 and now bears his name.

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 50 years, made the preservation of religious liberty an overriding concern.

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles is designed to provide ideal facilities for Scientologists on their ascent to higher states of spiritual freedom and to serve as a home for the entire community--a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations. It was dedicated by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige in 2010. To learn more about the Church's many contributions to Los Angeles, visit the new interactive timeline on the Scientology website.

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles is featured in an episode of Inside Scientology 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.scientology.org/our-help-is-yours/

https://www.scientology-losangeles.org

https://www.scientologyreligion.org

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

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/hC0nHBNaqBk

Religious leaders discuss the importance of tolerance in today's world at a forum at the Church of Scientology Los Angeles. Freedom of religion or belief is often described as the "canary in the coal mine" -- a metaphor for a social issue that predicts danger or disaster.

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

Church of Scientology Celebrates Latin Culture and Women’s Empowerment

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The vibrant strains of Latin Music filled East Hollywood when the Church of Scientology Los Angeles hosted the Miss Hispanidad Festival. It was held during National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15-October 15), set aside to honor the history, culture and contribution of those whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. Miss Hispanidad Festival promotes women's empowerment and celebrates the Latin culture of the Americas.

The annual event, produced by Miss XV magazine, included traditional music, dance, and costumes celebrating unique cultures of the Americas.

South America was represented by the culture of Peru, Central America by Costa Rica, North America by Mexico, and the Caribbean by the Dominican Republic.

With their commitment to promoting and defending the human rights of all Angelenos, L.A. Scientologists believe in the importance of preserving and honoring the languages, traditions and heritage of the many cultures that call Los Angeles home. There are nearly 5 million Hispanics and Latinx men, women and children in Los Angeles County. They each have the right, as stated in Article 27 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, to freely "participate in the cultural life of the community, to enjoy the arts and to share in scientific advancement and its benefits."

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles partners with Hispanic and Latinx organizations to provide resources to celebrate and keep these unique and diverse cultures alive. According to UNESCO, there are over 7,000 languages spoken globally, of which nearly 6,700 are indigenous languages. Some 40 percent of these are at risk of disappearing, and, with the loss of these languages, a unique piece of humankind's history will also be lost.

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles is designed to provide ideal facilities for Scientologists on their ascent to higher states of spiritual freedom and to serve as a home for the entire community -- a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations. It was dedicated by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige in 2010.

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles is featured in an episode of Inside Scientology 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.

For more information, visit the website of the Church of Scientology Los Angeles or the new interactive timeline on Scientology.org.

The Scientology religion was founded by author and philosopher L. Ron Hubbard. The first Church of Scientology was formed in Los Angeles in 1954 and the religion has expanded to more than 11,000 Churches, Missions and affiliated groups, with millions of members in 167 countries.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.org/our-help-is-yours/

https://www.scientology-losangeles.org

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/B0xMnowNCYo

The vibrant strains of Latin Music filled East Hollywood when the Church of Scientology Los Angeles hosted the Miss Hispanidad Festival. It was held during National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15-October 15), set aside to honor the history, culture and contribution of those whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. Miss Hispanidad Festival promotes women's empowerment and celebrates the Latin culture of the Americas.

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

Celebrating the 5th Anniversary of the Church of Scientology of Dublin

SOUTH DUBLIN, Ireland /ScoopCloud/ -- Old friends and new filled the auditorium of the Church of Scientology Dublin to capacity October 14 to celebrate five years of friendship, outreach and personal and community betterment. Five years ago, the Church of Scientology and Community Centre of Dublin opened its doors.

With its 1,053-seat auditorium, the largest cultural venue in South Dublin, the Scientology Community Centre has become an indispensable resource for local community groups, cultural heritage programs including Irish dance, and hundreds of artists of various backgrounds from South Dublin, throughout Ireland and abroad.

The Church has hosted more than 1,300 events over the past five years, despite the pandemic, welcoming some 200,000 guests. It has also organized fundraisers in support of various community groups and charities. And its volunteers are active in humanitarian initiatives to combat drug abuse, raise awareness about human rights and promote common-sense values that improve the quality of life.

The Church has become a hub for diverse communities, cultural celebrations, dance competitions and family fun days, including Winter Wonderland, St. Patrick's Day and the summertime "Dinosaur Days" - all provided free of charge.

The Church's 5th-anniversary celebration began with a buffet in the Church café, followed by live music performed by singer-songwriter Stephen Leeson, who broadcasts his weekly The Stephen Leeson Show from the Scientology Community Centre auditorium. The show is a collaboration between the Church and Leeson, created to provide a way for musicians and artists to perform when restrictions to contain the pandemic closed all other venues. And it has continued since because of its popularity.

The best way to experience the spirit and warmth of this unique Scientology Church is to stop in for a visit at Firhouse Rd., Tallaght, Dublin. But those living too far away to simply drop in can see what the Church means to Irish Scientologists and the community at large by watching Destination: Scientology--Dublin on the Scientology Network.

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

Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige dedicated the Church of Scientology and Community Centre in South Dublin in October 2017. An Ideal Scientology Organization, it is configured to provide ideal facilities for Scientologists on their ascent to higher states of spiritual freedom and to serve as a home for the entire community -- a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations.

The Scientology religion was founded by author and philosopher L. Ron Hubbard. The first Church of Scientology was formed in Los Angeles in 1954 and the religion has expanded to more than 11,000 Churches, Missions and affiliated groups, with millions of members in 167 countries.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology-dublin.ie/

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

https://www.scientology.org/our-help-is-yours/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/90kCLBoVJsc

Old friends and new filled the auditorium of the Church of Scientology Dublin to capacity October 14 to celebrate five years of friendship, outreach and personal and community betterment. Five years ago, the Church of Scientology and Community Centre of Dublin opened its doors.

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

Church of Scientology and Christian Pastor Unite for a Stronger, More Compassionate Community

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- A new video on the Scientology website shows how the commitment of a Church of Scientology in Los Angeles inspired a Christian pastor to do more.

"I've been in ministry for over 41 years," says a Christian pastor in a video on the new interactive timeline on the Scientology website. "And I've longed to be part of an organization that was more hands-on and doing things."

The pastor describes how he'd grown tired of meetings filled with "talking but not really doing it."

Then he found the Church of Scientology of Inglewood and the many programs it offers.

"I know who's doing it," he says. "The Church of Scientology is doing it. That's the thing that I want to be a part of."

The pandemic created many hardships for houses of worship and parishioners. It was nearly a year before the U.S. Supreme Court lifted California's ban on indoor church services.

"People were longing to get back to normal in their personal lives and their work and also in their community involvement," the pastor says.

But the pandemic was far from over and people were anxious about what would happen when they started to interact again.

When he learned about the Stay Well campaign of the Church of Scientology, he called it "a great step toward bringing us back to normalcy." Here was an initiative that helped people understand the protocols and what they could do to make sure they and their families and friends stayed well.

Los Angeles Scientology Churches took part in an international campaign to educate others on the simple principles behind prevention. They did this through booklets and videos that visitors could read or watch and download free of charge from the How to Stay Well Prevention Center on the Scientology website. In Greater Los Angeles alone, Scientology Volunteer Ministers distributed more than 300,000 Stay Well booklets to essential businesses, restaurants, take-outs, supermarkets and other retail outlets for their customers and door-to-door to their neighbors.

One principle he describes as "galvanizing" is the motto for the Stay Well campaign: "An ounce of prevention is worth a ton of cure."

"That's my mantra," he says. "You know sometimes, some of the best 'cures' are never to get started."

He also speaks of the technology the Church provides which he describes as "real practical yet in-depth. It's doable and it's workable and it can help...whether it's in their marriage or whether it's raising children, trying to navigate through the workplace.

"I want to take that back to the community, take that back to my workplace, take that back to my family, and help effect some needed changes.

"I applaud you all for your efforts to keep us all safe, healthy and wise."

The Church of Scientology Inglewood and its South Los Angeles Community Center are designed to provide ideal facilities for Scientologists on their ascent to higher states of spiritual freedom and to serve as a home for the entire community - a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations.

In November 2011, Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige dedicated the Church of Scientology Inglewood. An episode of Destination: Scientology on the Scientology Network provides a look at the amazing transformation that has taken place as a result.

The Scientology religion was founded by author and philosopher L. Ron Hubbard. The first Church of Scientology was formed in Los Angeles in 1954 and the religion has expanded to more than 11,000 Churches, Missions and affiliated groups, with millions of members in 167 countries.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.org/our-help-is-yours/

https://www.scientology-inglewood.org

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEOS:

https://youtu.be/qPyMDmI77BI

https://youtu.be/B0xMnowNCYo

A new video on the Scientology website shows how the commitment of a Church of Scientology in Los Angeles inspired a Christian pastor to do more. The pandemic created many hardships for houses of worship and parishioners. It was nearly a year before the U.S. Supreme Court lifted California's ban on indoor church services.

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

New Video on the Scientology Website: How the Church Reaches Out with Help

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- A video on Scientology.org shows why underserved neighborhoods in Los Angeles know they can depend on the Church of Scientology. When one thinks of Hollywood, some envision fancy cars on Rodeo Drive, red-carpet events and searchlights announcing movie premieres. That's the impression that fills the pages of entertainment and celebrity websites and blogs and endless social media posts.

What these news sources fail to convey is what goes on behind the scenes and the people who make these lavish events possible: Those who prepare the delicacies, park the automobiles, pour the drinks, clear the tables and wash the dishes. And particularly, what happened to these people when the pandemic struck.

The service industry was among those hit hardest by the lockdown. Restaurants, movie theatres, shops and other nonessential venues abruptly closed their doors, putting workers out of their jobs for an undetermined amount of time. They didn't know if they would be able to return to work at all.

Many in the service industry are immigrants residing in far less affluent East Hollywood, earning hourly wages and working long hours to put food on the table for their families and see to their basic household necessities.

"A lot of the organizations that volunteer closed," says the executive director of an immigrant charitable foundation in East Hollywood. "The local food bank half a block away from here closed its doors until December. Those people needed food and now the places they could get it from before were not available."

She turned to other nonprofits and churches for assistance to get food to families in need. "Nobody came through except the Church of Scientology," she said.

For six months, she worked with the Church of Scientology to feed the local population. The need was intense.

"When you have someone coming in with a walker and standing in line for three hours to get a couple of bags of groceries, you know he really needs it," she says. "Our collaboration has been very, very fruitful. We've touched so many lives."

When the holidays approached, her foundation organized a toy drive for gifts for children of out-of-work parents.

"We figured if people were willing to stand in line for three hours for groceries, there were not a lot of discretionary funds left over for toys," she says.

They decided to provide toys for 100 kids but when they posted about it, within two days there were requests for 450.

"Out of desperation, I called the Church of Scientology," she says. "And like knights in shining armor, in a matter of a week, they were able to send me more than 400 toys."

"To understand the impact of that, you'd have to understand the families we serve."

She described a very humble young man who came with his sister and brother and he made sure his brother had toys first and put himself last in line after his younger siblings. When they gave a toy to him, his grandmother started crying and explained this was the first time this boy had ever received a present of any kind. He was 14 years old.

"It has been a privilege to get to know your volunteers," says the foundation's executive director. "If there is a need, they show up. That is such a rare thing. And I am grateful. Thank you for making our work possible."

The Church of Scientology of Los Angeles is designed to provide ideal facilities for Scientologists on their ascent to higher states of spiritual freedom and to serve as a home for the entire community-a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations. It was dedicated by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige in 2010.

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles is featured in an episode of Inside Scientology 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.

For more information, visit the website of the Church of Scientology Los Angeles.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.org/our-help-is-yours/

https://www.scientology-losangeles.org

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/B0xMnowNCYo

A video on Scientology.org shows why underserved neighborhoods in Los Angeles know they can depend on the Church of Scientology. The service industry was among those hit hardest by the lockdown. Restaurants, movie theatres, shops and other nonessential venues abruptly closed their doors, putting workers out of their jobs for an undetermined amount of time.

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

Scientology Disaster Response Team: ‘Florida Storm Victims Still Need Help’

CLEARWATER, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Scientology Volunteer Ministers continue their response in Southwest Florida to help those still struggling to recover from the worst storm to hit the area since 1935. When Hurricane Ian rampaged through Southwest Florida with 155 mph winds, it left devastation in its wake, killing at least 102 and creating economic havoc. As few as 9.4 percent of those living in some devastated areas are covered by flood insurance. Scientology Volunteer Ministers have been providing disaster relief since the storm passed through the region and their work is far from over.

"We came across a lot of people whose houses were demolished," said a Volunteer Minister who was among the first to arrive in the area. "They were without running water or power, so the water we handed out was super appreciated. We came up to a mobile home park that was totally demolished. As we were driving by, a woman was standing by the side of her home and we asked if she needed water. She didn't, but she desperately needed ice for her insulin or it would go bad."

The entire area was without power. The Volunteer Ministers had no idea where to get ice, so they drove around and finally found a store with enough ice to tide her over.

Volunteer Ministers equipped with chainsaws took on clearing away fallen trees and hanging branches. They cleared out streets so people could get into and out of their homes. They helped move families out of flooded areas to shelters or friends' homes.

It took another team of Volunteer Ministers many hours to clean out the debris from a woman's home and around her property. They sent her pictures of the house when they were done and she called them in tears, thanking them for their help. They cut down a tree that had fallen on another house and helped a 97-year-old veteran clear away the storm damage that covered his home.

Now two weeks later, there are still so many people in need of help, and the Volunteer Ministers continue to serve in North Port, Port Charlotte, Fort Myers and Orlando.

"We've been using the Crisis Clean-up website where people needing assistance can register for help," said one of the Volunteer Ministers. Using this site, they were directed to a trailer park. "It was heavily hit by the hurricane and several homes were severely damaged. We cleared away debris, cut down fallen trees, cleaned off roofs, and helped tarp the side of a house that had been ripped off, providing the home shelter from the elements."

Whether serving in their communities or on the other side of the world, the motto of the Scientology Volunteer Minister is "Something can be done about it." The program, created by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard in the mid-1970s, is sponsored by the Church of Scientology International as a religious social service and constitutes one of the world's most significant independent relief forces.

The Volunteer Minister "helps his fellow man on a volunteer basis by restoring purpose, truth and spiritual values to the lives of others."

Tampa Bay Volunteer Ministers earned their reputation as "Hurricane Heroes" with an award from the Governor of Florida after their response to Hurricane Charlie in 2004: "This certificate is presented to Scientology Volunteer Ministers of Tampa Bay Hurricane Heroes, in recognition of exemplary efforts that not only benefit your local community but also lend truth to the belief that all citizens of Florida can make a difference in the lives of those they serve," it states.

They have continued to serve, responding to Hurricanes Rita and Katrina in 2005 and every local hurricane since, most recently Irma in 2017, Michael and Florence in 2018, as well as Hurricane Harvey in Texas in 2017, Maria in Puerto Rico in 2018, and Dorian in the Bahamas in 2019.

In June 2016, Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige dedicated the center for the Scientology Volunteer Ministers of Florida, along with a Scientology information center and six other humanitarian centers in downtown Clearwater. He said, "In times of disaster, whether affecting whole populations or a single household, our Volunteer Ministers prove on a daily basis that 'something can be done about it.' We do not discriminate. We do not judge. All we care to do is help. And, as demonstrated time and again, we deliver that help anywhere and everywhere."

For more information on the technology used by the Volunteer Minister in confronting and handling disasters, watch Scientology Tools for Life on the Scientology Network at DIRECTV 320 or at www.Scientology.tv.

LEARN MORE:

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

https://www.scientology.org/our-help-is-yours/

https://www.scientology.tv/films/scientology-principles/tools-for-life.html

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/nGRWeCFOtI8

Scientology Volunteer Ministers continue their response in Southwest Florida to help those still struggling to recover from the worst storm to hit the area since 1935. When Hurricane Ian rampaged through Southwest Florida with 155 mph winds, it left devastation in its wake, killing at least 102 and creating economic havoc.

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

Community Comes Together in Support of the LAPD and a Cleaner and Safer Hollywood

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- With violent crime on the rise in Los Angeles, more than 50 local businesses, nonprofits and faith-based organizations joined the LAPD in a community coalition on Faith & Blue Weekend to reclaim the streets of Hollywood with a neighborhood cleanup launched by the Hollywood Community Police Station and co-organized by the Church of Scientology.

October 8 was no ordinary Saturday morning in Hollywood. As crowds gathered in the Capitol Records Building parking lot, tourists and locals soon realized something special was happening. Was it the presentation of a new star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame? Or an unexpected movie premiere? No. This was the launch of a coalition of more than 50 organizations that decided to take back the streets of Hollywood.

More than 460 volunteers gathered for a community cleanup -- the largest ever done in the area. Two local businesses donated the space and parking for the event that was organized by the LAPD and the Church of Scientology on National Faith & Blue Weekend under the banner "Unity in the Community."

The purpose of Faith & Blue Weekend is to create safer and stronger communities by engaging law enforcement officers and local residents through the connections of faith-based organizations.

Hollywood LAPD Captain Yasir Gillani welcomed the volunteers, thanking them and the many LAPD officers for their support of the project. He gave a special shout-out to the Church of Scientology for bringing the community together to support the program.

Faith & Blue founder Rev. Markel Hutchins, in Los Angeles from Atlanta, Georgia, to launch the Los Angeles Faith & Blue Weekend celebrations, spoke of a turnout like this being proof that when faiths, communities and law enforcement work together, we can bridge differences, increase collaboration and reduce bias and violence.

Those coming on board for a cleaner, safer and more beautiful Hollywood included the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, the Hollywood Partnership, the L.A. Office of Community Beautification, the L.A. Department of Sanitation, and numerous local businesses and faith-based organizations.

The volunteers divided into seven teams, each headed by an LAPD Hollywood Division officer. The City of Los Angeles Department of Sanitation and Home Depot equipped them with bags, shovels, brooms and trash pickers.

Teams cleaned 170 city blocks totaling 17 miles of Hollywood streets, and they beautified 200 storefronts by cleaning, painting and removing graffiti.

The trash was carried away by one of the L.A. Department of Sanitation's new zero-emission all-electric garbage trucks.

As the teams returned to the Vine Street staging area at noon, they were serenaded by a mariachi band while they enjoyed a complimentary lunch provided by local businesses including Pinks Hot Dogs, In-N-Out Burger, Tommy's Hamburgers, Domino's Pizza, Sharky's and Fresh Brother's Pizza.

The Church of Scientology, LAPD and The Way to Happiness Foundation have partnered in monthly neighborhood cleanups since 2018, including a special annual scouring of Hollywood Boulevard on the eve of each year's Hollywood Christmas Parade.

After each cleanup, volunteers hand out copies of The Way to Happiness, written by humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard. The Way to Happiness is a common-sense nonreligious moral code with 21 precepts to guide people to make better choices in their lives. With precepts such as "Set a Good Example," "Safeguard and Improve Your Environment," "Be Worthy of Trust" "Fulfill Your Obligations" and "Be Industrious," The Way to Happiness encourages people to point the way to a moral, less dangerous and happier life.

National Faith & Blue Weekend was created to facilitate safer, stronger, more just and unified communities by directly enabling local partnerships among law enforcement professionals, residents, businesses and community groups through local faith-based organizations. These connections are built through activities held in neighborhoods of every kind across the United States, jointly hosted by houses of worship and local law enforcement entities.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.org/our-help-is-yours/

https://www.scientology-losangeles.org

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/B0xMnowNCYo

Video News Release on the October 8 LAPD Hollywood Cleanup: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZoH0ZOCv4Pw

With violent crime on the rise in Los Angeles, more than 50 local businesses, nonprofits and faith-based organizations joined the LAPD in a community coalition on Faith & Blue Weekend to reclaim the streets of Hollywood with a neighborhood cleanup launched by the Hollywood Community Police Station and co-organized by the Church of Scientology.

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

The Church of Scientology, Uplifting, Inspiring and Changing the World

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- A new interactive timeline on the Scientology website provides a glimpse into why so many people count on the Church of Scientology for help in Los Angeles and around the world.

From the 101 to Sunset Boulevard and all over the Southland, Los Angeles Scientology Churches serve as hubs for religious organizations, like-minded groups and community leaders.

Watch a series of videos on the Scientology website and learn how L.A. Scientology Churches welcome all cultures, all religions, and work with the community to create a positive impact, with neighborhood events, holiday celebrations and charity fundraisers attended by more than 50,000 in the past year alone. Learn how:

* Scientology volunteers have organized weekly food drives distributing 258,000 pounds of food to help more than 17,000 families over the past 16 months.

* At the height of the pandemic, Scientologists distributed 380,435 How to Stay Well booklets door-to-door to neighbors and essential businesses for their customers.

* They supported those on the front lines, sanitizing 1,378 police vehicles and 82 police stations throughout the region so the police could stay well and continue to serve our communities.

Scientologists take responsibility for their neighborhoods:

* They bring the community together by organizing neighborhood cleanups.

* Scientology Volunteer Ministers provide support to firefighters and other emergency personnel. They have responded to every major disaster in Los Angeles and throughout California since 1989.

* Responding to another kind of disaster affecting L.A. families, Scientologists provide drug education to tackle drug abuse, addiction and overdose deaths in our schools and neighborhoods. They have organized and held some 1,200 drug education seminars reaching more than 5 million people in and around Los Angeles with the truth about drugs.

* Scientologists work to reduce crime and gang violence by organizing Peace Rides that promote the common-sense values of The Way to Happiness, the nonreligious moral code written by author, humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard.

Hear what community and religious leaders have to say about Scientology. Hear from neighbors and local nonprofits about why they count on the Church to support their activities. And learn how the work of L.A. Scientology Churches betters the lives of people throughout the Southland.

Visit the Scientology website and see why so many Angelenos count on the L.A. Churches of Scientology and the Scientologists to help make life better in the City of Dreams.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.org/our-help-is-yours/

https://www.scientology-losangeles.org

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/B0xMnowNCYo

A new interactive timeline on the Scientology website provides a glimpse into why so many people count on the Church of Scientology for help in Los Angeles and around the world. From the 101 to Sunset Boulevard and all over the Southland, Los Angeles Scientology Churches serve as hubs for religious organizations, like-minded groups and community leaders.

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

Church of Scientology Weekly Food Giveaways Help People Cope with Food Insecurity

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- For the past 63 weeks, Volunteer Ministers of the Church of Scientology Los Angeles have been making life less challenging for East Hollywood families and individuals trying to cope with food insecurity.

As of July 2022, 24.3 percent of L.A. County households had experienced food insecurity in the past year. According to a USC survey, 40 percent of them have children in the household. Inflation has made it harder to purchase foods they were relying on before. And hardest hit has been low-income and Hispanic/Latinx households.

To help the community cope with these circumstances, each week Scientology Volunteer Ministers set up their bright yellow tents in the Church parking lot right off Sunset Boulevard near Vermont and provide a variety of foods to those driving or walking through.

Cars simply line up and pop their trunks and the volunteers place food items inside. And they have put food in an estimated 17,000 trunks since the program began.

According to the L.A. Regional Food Bank, the economic impact of the pandemic and inflation have significantly increased the food-insecure population. "Due to the soaring costs of both housing and transportation in Los Angeles County, many people who work - even families with two incomes - often can't make ends meet or put enough good food on the table."

The Church also organizes seasonal giveaways such as turkeys at Thanksgiving and Christmas foods, candy and gifts for local children.

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles is located at 4810 Sunset Blvd.

The iconic headquarters of the Church of Scientology of Los Angeles is designed to provide the ideal facilities for Scientologists on their ascent to higher states of spiritual freedom and to serve as a home for the entire community - a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations.

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles is featured in an episode of Inside Scientology, which first aired in March 2018 when Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige launched the Scientology Network on DIRECTV channel 320. The episode can be streamed on Scientology.tv and is available through mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

For more information, visit the website of the Church of Scientology Los Angeles.

LEARN MORE:

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

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

https://www.scientology-losangeles.org

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/8XnzFn688js

For the past 63 weeks, Volunteer Ministers of the Church of Scientology Los Angeles have been making life less challenging for East Hollywood families and individuals trying to cope with food insecurity.

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

Scientology Volunteers Help Neighbors Battered by Record Italian Floods

SENIGALLIA, Italy /ScoopCloud/ -- Tragedy struck the commune of Senigallia, and local Scientologists responded immediately to help the community recover from the worst floods ever to hit the town. Ever since the eastern coast of Italy was devastated by a flash flood September 16, Scientology Volunteer Ministers have been hard at work providing help.

Volunteer Ministers from the Church of Scientology Mission of Senigallia responded immediately, helping their city dig out from the mud. They have been joined by Volunteer Ministers from the Churches of Scientology of Padova and Rome.

Some of the worst of the recent flooding in Italy hit the town of Senigallia, where the River Misa overflowed its banks.

Although alerted to rain, it was far greater than predicted. Local residents did not expect the violence of the storm, which dumped between 16 and 19 inches of rain on the region in two or three hours. An Interior Ministry official in Ancona described the rainfall as a "water bomb that exploded." A local mayor said it was more like a tsunami. In just a few hours, the region was inundated with as much rainfall as it usually receives in six months.

Streets became rivers that carried away everything in their path. At least 10 people died.

When floodwaters receded, the cleanup began, and the Scientology Volunteer Ministers responded immediately and have been helping their community dig out from the mud and water damage ever since.

Whether serving in their communities or on the other side of the world, the motto of the Scientology Volunteer Minister is "Something can be done about it." The program, created by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard in the mid-1970s, is sponsored by the Church of Scientology International as a religious social service and constitutes one of the world's most significant independent relief forces.

The Volunteer Minister "helps his fellow man on a volunteer basis by restoring purpose, truth and spiritual values to the lives of others."

The Scientology Network features Scientology: Tools for Life, an introduction to the basic principles and technology that comprise the training of the Volunteer Minister. These films present practical tools anybody may learn and use to overcome problems, live a happier life, and better the lives of those around them.

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. 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.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology.tv/films/scientology-principles/tools-for-life.html

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/nGRWeCFOtI8

Tragedy struck the commune of Senigallia, and local Scientologists responded immediately to help the community recover from the worst floods ever to hit the town. Ever since the eastern coast of Italy was devastated by a flash flood September 16, Scientology Volunteer Ministers have been hard at work providing help.

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

Uganda’s Scientology Volunteer Ministers Reach Out With Help

WANGA PARISH, Uganda /ScoopCloud/ -- Scientology Tools for Life are transforming communities in the hands of a dedicated team of local leaders and the Scientology Volunteer Ministers of Wanga Parish, Uganda. As the UN convenes in New York for the 77th General Assembly, delegates and world leaders are seeking solutions for building "a more sustainable and resilient world for all." Some 7,000 miles away, district leaders in Eastern Uganda are making this dream a reality, thanks to the Scientology Volunteer Ministers of Wanga Parish.

It all began when Arthur Wamatsu learned about the Scientology Volunteer Ministers program and its 19 online courses from his aunt Millie. The whole family was amazed. Here was the technology to transform their birth village from one beset by poverty and despair to a place of hope and self-reliance.

The entire family trained on the 19 Scientology Tools for Life courses, the basic training for the Volunteer Ministers. They put their new skills into action.

Disease and natural disasters had taken their toll on the village, leaving 70 orphans in need of care and many families living on the edge of starvation.

The Volunteer Ministers raised funds to establish a medical clinic with a Volunteer Minister-trained nurse who provides basic health care along with Scientology assists-techniques developed by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard that address the emotional and spiritual factors in stress and trauma.

More donations went to the purchase of seeds, chickens and pigs.

Next, they trained every adult in the village on the Tools for Life courses. The whole village took on planting the crops-maize, beans and rice to begin with. Everyone, including the children, took turns watering and weeding. The village has now brought in their first harvest, and they have added sweet potatoes and cassava to what they are growing. With what they have grown and the 130 eggs their chickens produce each day, there is plenty of food for the village.

The Volunteer Ministers helped the village establish an orphanage with a nursery school for the 30 younger children. More donations paid for the school uniforms for the 40 older children who are now attending school.

With enough food to feed themselves, they plan to raise and sell chickens and pigs and expand their operation.

Word spread of the transformation of the parish and the Nalonda sub-county chair could hardly believe the change. He decided to study the courses himself.

"I have learned so much that I will use to improve my leadership skills," he said. "It would have been so easy for me if I'd known all this before. I have been finding my work very challenging, but today I gained the solutions." How to investigate to find the cause of difficulties and how to resolve conflicts were the courses he found the most valuable. He sees they will ease any leadership difficulties for the rest of his tenure.

He then invited all 186 sub-county leaders representing 10,000 villagers to take the courses. They all agreed. He helped set up a training center in Wanga Parish to serve the entire district and beyond. And he transported all the sub-county leaders to the week-long training.

"From the very first day of this training today it has been a period full of knowledge," said Namataka Agnes, 34, one of the sub-county leaders. "So much wisdom actually. I have learned so much that I didn't know and never thought I could learn from anywhere ever. I am so excited. They say hope is the pillar of the world, but I say it is wisdom. So many people in this community are lagging behind. With these courses taught to them, they will be empowered and help each other move forward. Many don't know how to handle kids, solve simple marriage conflicts, how to communicate. Just imagine when all these courses are taught to them. The community will be so empowered and ready to move forward."

The Church of Scientology Volunteer Ministers program is a religious social service created in the mid-1970s by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard. It constitutes one of the world's largest independent relief forces. Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige, calling on Scientologists to use what they know to redouble their efforts to aid their fellow man, has inspired tremendous growth in the Volunteer Ministers movement.

The Volunteer Minister's mandate is to be "a person who helps his fellow man on a volunteer basis by restoring purpose, 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."

Their motto is no matter the circumstances, "Something can be done about it."

For more information, visit the Volunteer Ministers website. To arrange a live seminar, fill out the form on their website.

LEARN MORE:

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

https://www.volunteerministers.org

https://www.scientology.tv/films/scientology-principles/tools-for-life.html

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/nGRWeCFOtI8

Scientology Tools for Life are transforming communities in the hands of a dedicated team of local leaders and the Scientology Volunteer Ministers of Wanga Parish, Uganda. The Volunteer Ministers raised funds to establish a medical clinic with a Volunteer Minister-trained nurse.

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

Scientologists Say Knowing the Truth About Fentanyl Can Save Lives

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Fentanyl is a classic case of "what you don't know can kill you." Drug education and prevention have never been more important. Learn the truth about the deadly opioid fentanyl. And learn what you can do about it on the Scientology Network.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that some 108,000 people in the U.S. died of drug overdoses between February 2021 and February 2022. Of those, more than 70 percent involved fentanyl and other synthetic opioids.

A cousin to heroin, fentanyl is much deadlier because it is so much stronger - 50 times more potent than heroin, according to the CDC. A dose of only 2-3 milligrams can be fatal. That much of the drug would be smaller than the tip of a ballpoint pen.

A fine powder, fentanyl is easy to mix into other drugs. It looks identical to heroin, so users, injecting heroin laced with fentanyl, won't know they're injecting a lethal dose until it's too late. In Connecticut, for example, 85 percent of drug overdose deaths involved fentanyl last year.

"Heroin and opiate addiction in America is a pandemic," warned Steered Straight founder Michael DeLeon in a blog in June 2020. "I have used the word epidemic many times during this escalation of death, but we are at pandemic levels. The problem and the systemic danger to all of us is getting worse. We are facing a Synthetic Storm."

Steered Straight is a nonprofit organization providing educational programs and materials to youth, families and communities across the country and around the world. DeLeon is the #1 booked drug prevention lecturer in U.S. schools.

"Parents ask me all the time what they can do to prevent their child from growing up to struggle with addiction. How can it be prevented?" says DeLeon. His answer is, you have to educate today's youth to stay on the right path when it comes to serious life issues, especially drugs.

In an episode of Voices for Humanity on the Scientology Network, DeLeon describes how he was searching the internet for materials that would really get across to kids. He found the Truth About Drugs initiative of Foundation for a Drug-Free World, and realized "this is it!" These materials were exactly what he needed. What's more, the Foundation's materials were absolutely free.

Foundation for a Drug-Free World makes its materials available free of charge to anyone wishing to use them to educate others on the truth about drugs, thanks to the support of the Church of Scientology and Scientologists.

"No matter how you look at it, fentanyl is deadly," says Jessica Hochman, Executive Director of Foundation for a Drug-Free World. "The worst thing about fentanyl is that dealers are mixing it in other drugs, so buyers don't even know what they are getting until it's too late."

"The only solution is to educate youth, so they don't start taking drugs in the first place. It's not how to safely take drugs. It is how to empower youth with confidence that they are doing the right thing in not taking drugs period."

Foundation for a Drug-Free World is a Los Angeles-based nonprofit public benefit corporation that empowers youth and adults with factual information about drugs so they can make informed decisions and live drug-free.

"We are increasing our efforts," says Hochman. "And we ask that others help us in our mission to teach the truth about drugs."

Watch Michael DeLeon's episode of Voices for Humanity on the Scientology Network.

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. 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.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.drugfreeworld.org

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

MULTIMEDIA:

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

Fentanyl is a classic case of "what you don't know can kill you." Drug education and prevention have never been more important. Learn the truth about the deadly opioid fentanyl. And learn what you can do about it on the Scientology Network.

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

Scientology Assist Team Helps Pakistan Flood Victims in Need of Care

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- In response to unprecedented flooding in Pakistan, described by the UN as a climate catastrophe, Scientology volunteers continue providing urgently needed supplies and health care in their outreach to affected communities.

With a third of the country under water and authorities predicting it could take six months for floodwaters to recede in areas hardest hit, Scientology Volunteer Assist Teams continue providing help.

Waterborne and other diseases pose a serious threat to these communities, so the doctors hold a medical camp in each village they visit and administer care.

"We arranged a medical camp in a village in Hyderabad," said Perwaiz Hasan, who leads the Scientology Assist Teams. "No help has reached this area so far. Flood victims said we are the first ones."

They had to come through swampland to survey the damaged homes.

"Their suffering is real. The damage is real. They are in great need of help," said Hasan.

They delivered food and water, and doctors on the team set up a clinic to provide first aid and medicine.

A few days later the team arrived in another village. They came at the invitation of two local teachers who thanked them not only for the medical care, food and supplies they brought but also for giving the children balls and bats, which were a huge hit with the kids.

At another nearby village, what was most appreciated was the mosquito repellent and nets they brought.

Food, water and other urgently needed supplies have not arrived in these remote villages. The Scientology Volunteer Assist Team has been raising donations and bringing supplies to the villages they visit.

In addition to performing medical examinations and distributing needed medicine, the volunteers train villagers to help each other using simple Scientology assists-techniques developed by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard that speed recovery by addressing the emotional and spiritual factors in stress and trauma. One young girl who had a stomachache didn't know what to think of the technique. But the volunteer continued to administer it and after a short while, the girl looked very surprised. The stomach pain was gone.

This was the first medical camp one of the doctors participated in. "She was very thankful to us," said Hasan. She plans to join them as they continue their outreach.

Modern technology has been of major assistance to the volunteer team. Using their Facebook and WhatsApp they have been able to collect donated items including clothes, food and water to distribute to the communities they visit.

Their van driver was so taken with the volunteers that he took one of their bright yellow T-shirts for the next time "because I want to continue working with you as a volunteer," he said.

Members of the Scientology Volunteer Assist Team of Pakistan have studied the Scientology Tools for Life, a series of 19 courses, many of which include vital skills for responding to disasters. This is the basic training for the Scientology Volunteer Minister. It increases their communication skills and enables them to bring order to the chaos of disaster sites.

For more than a decade, Perwaiz Hasan and his team have been responding to disasters in Pakistan and other countries in South Asia and beyond. His humanitarian work earned him the Freedom Medal of the International Association of Scientologists in 2012.

Scientology: Tools for Life is a filmed introduction to the basic principles and technology that comprise the training these volunteers use. These films are available on the Scientology Network. Tools for Life courses are available free of charge on the Scientology website. They include practical skills anyone may learn and use to overcome problems, live a happier life, and better the lives of those around them.

Available on DIRECTV Channel 320, the Scientology Network can also be streamed 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.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology.tv/films/scientology-principles/tools-for-life.html

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/nGRWeCFOtI8

In response to unprecedented flooding in Pakistan, described by the UN as a climate catastrophe, Scientology volunteers continue providing urgently needed supplies and health care in their outreach to affected communities.

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

The Legacy of 9/11 and the Scientology Movement it Inspired

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Out of the smoke and dust that engulfed lower Manhattan 21 years ago rose a humanitarian movement known for its ardent commitment to help: the Scientology Volunteer Ministers-a religious social service of the Church of Scientology.

The 9/11 terror attacks marked a turning point for Scientologists.

More than 800 Scientology Volunteer Ministers served in the aftermath of the attack. They traveled from across the country and abroad, providing support to emergency personnel and bringing order to the chaos. And they continued doing so throughout the entire eight months of the rescue and recovery effort.

"At any time, well over 100 Volunteer Ministers from the Church of Scientology mill around the remains of the World Trade Center," wrote The New York Times on September 20, 2001. "On the day of the attack, they took in food to workers....When rescue workers stagger from the wreckage, the ministers, identified by their T-shirts, try to focus the workers' minds and revive their bodies."

"The Volunteer Ministers worked with great energy and great compassion at Ground Zero, helping to ease the physical burdens and mental strains of the rescue workers," wrote a New York Police Chief in thanks. "The organization, the caring, and the dedication of your Volunteer Ministers were exceptional, very much appreciated, and will long be remembered by those who received their help."

Within hours and the terror attacks, Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige issued a directive that was distributed to Scientologists everywhere: The Wake-Up Call. As its title suggests, it urged Scientologists to treat this event as a change point. And they did. As of September 11, 2001, there were 6,000 Volunteer Ministers worldwide. Today, Scientology Volunteer Ministers are among the world's most widely recognized independent relief organizations, with hundreds of thousands on call to respond to disasters great and small. Whether helping at the sites of natural and man-made disasters or responding to the needs of their neighbors and communities, the bright yellow T-shirt of the Volunteer Ministers has become a symbol of help.

"The answer to this planet's problems will not be found in the material," said Mr. Miscavige in describing what that tragedy represented for the Church. "Of this there can be no question. 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?"

He also pointed out that providing help in disaster zones is only one part of the picture.

"For while we can help in the worst of circumstances, when compassion itself demands each person to help one another, what about those everyday disasters simmering beneath the social structure? The marital difficulties and familial discord that ruins lives each day? The delinquent child and the parent with nowhere to turn for help? Not to mention oppression and depression, which all too often-with no other help in sight-turns to drugs as a last hope to dull the mental pain?

"And therein lies the greater story of our Volunteer Ministers...They are seen everywhere, in nations across the globe, bringing effective solutions before it is too late. Constantly visiting new communities to offer help with everything from marital difficulties, to tutoring of children, to providing counseling for the lonely."

The pandemic was a practical example of the extent and effectiveness of the movement.

Scientology Volunteer Ministers spent the lockdown serving their communities with food and medicine delivery, operating helplines, providing backup to medical professionals at COVID testing and vaccination centers and helping overloaded medical professionals cope with the care of elderly residents at healthcare facilities. They reached out to other houses of worship to provide training and sanitization to ensure the safety of their congregations. They distributed millions of educational booklets to help people understand and apply the protocols to prevent the spread of the virus.

The Volunteer Ministers movement has become truly grassroots, with hundreds of new Volunteer Ministers groups cropping up in towns and villages from South Africa and Uganda to Nepal, Papua New Guinea and throughout Latin America.

The Scientology Network airs Scientology: Tools for Life, a filmed introduction to the basic principles and technology that comprise the training these volunteers use. And the Tools for Life courses, the basic training for the Volunteer Minister, are available free of charge through the Volunteer Ministers and Scientology websites.

Each week, hundreds of new Volunteer Ministers complete all 19 Volunteer Ministers courses and become fully fledged members of the team.

In creating the Scientology Volunteer Ministers program in the 1970s, Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard wrote, "If one does not like the crime, cruelty, injustice and violence of this society, he can do something about it. He can become a Volunteer Minister and help civilize it, bring it conscience and kindness and love and freedom from travail by instilling into it trust, decency, honesty and tolerance."

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 motto is that no matter the circumstances, "Something can be done about it." And 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.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology.tv/films/scientology-principles/tools-for-life.html

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/nGRWeCFOtI8

Out of the smoke and dust that engulfed lower Manhattan 21 years ago rose a humanitarian movement known for its ardent commitment to help: the Scientology Volunteer Ministers-a religious social service of the Church of Scientology.

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

Scientology Assist Team Provides Help and Medical Care to Pakistan Flood Victims

KARACHI, Pakistan /ScoopCloud/ -- Responding to catastrophic floods that have left a third of the country submerged, a team of Scientology volunteers including doctors and other medical personnel are providing relief.

Since June, heavy monsoon rains and melting glaciers have inundated Pakistan in one of the worst disasters in the country's history. Millions are stranded. More than 1,200 have died. Nearly a third of the casualties are children. Volunteers from Pakistan's Scientology Volunteer Assist Team are bringing relief and medical care to those in need.

Lead volunteer Perwaiz Hasan mobilized his team to deliver food, water and clothing to flood survivors in shelters in Karachi.

There has been an outbreak of waterborne disease that can cause serious illness or death, and those who suffered injuries also need medical care. Doctors and other trained medical professionals on the team set up medical stations at the shelters where they examine those affected and administer needed care.

Children are often the hardest hit by disasters like these. So in addition to caring for the physical needs of those displaced by the floods, team members engage the children in extroverting activities to orient them in their current environment and bring them relief from the stress they have experienced.

Members of the team have studied the Scientology Tools for Life, a series of 19 courses, many of which include vital skills for responding to disasters. This training increases their communication skills and enables them to bring order to the chaos of disaster sites. The volunteers provide assists - techniques developed by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard that address the emotional and spiritual factors in stress and trauma.

For more than a decade, Perwaiz Hasan and his team have been responding to disasters in Pakistan and other countries in South Asia and beyond. His humanitarian work earned him the Freedom Medal of the International Association of Scientologists in 2012.

The Scientology Network Scientology: Tools for Life is a filmed introduction to the basic principles and technology that comprise the training these volunteers use. Tools for Life courses are available free of charge on the Scientology website. They include practical skills anyone may learn and use to overcome problems, live a happier life, and better the lives of those around them.

Available on DIRECTV Channel 320, the Scientology Network can also be streamed 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.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology.tv/films/scientology-principles/tools-for-life.html

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/nGRWeCFOtI8

Responding to catastrophic floods that have left a third of the country submerged, a team of Scientology volunteers including doctors and other medical personnel are providing relief.

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

How Can the Truth About Drugs Help End the Drug Overdose Epidemic?

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Scientology Churches provide tools anyone can use to help end the overdose crisis. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 105,000 lives were lost due to overdose in 2021. On August 26, U.S. President Joe Biden declared August 28 through September 3 to be Overdose Awareness Week, saying "Beating the opioid overdose epidemic is an urgent priority."

What can we do?

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

Parents, educators, community leaders and any concerned individual can save lives by taking 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.

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

* Contact your nearest Church of Scientology or the Foundation for a Drug-Free World to arrange any training you need as a drug education presenter. And START.

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. Many of them are featured on the Scientology Network in the original series Voices for Humanity. Among them:

* 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."

* 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.

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."

Thousands of people are using these tools in their communities to make a difference. Join them.

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.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

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

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

https://www.drugfreeworld.org/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/YAHVESjVkWs

Scientology Churches provide tools anyone can use to help end the overdose crisis. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 105,000 lives were lost due to overdose in 2021. There are five simple things anyone can do to take effective action against overdose deaths.

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

Scientologists Say the Truth Can Help Protect Youth from Drug Overdose

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Volunteers from Scientology Churches, Missions and groups fight drug overdose during Overdose Awareness Week and throughout the year with the truth - The Truth About Drugs initiative of Foundation for a Drug-Free World.

The spike in drug overdose deaths makes it more urgent than ever to warn young people about the dangers of drugs. This is a danger that has escalated over recent years, with drug dealers secretly adding fentanyl and other highly dangerous additives to the drugs they sell.

On Friday, U.S. President Joe Biden issued a proclamation declaring August 28 through September 3 as Overdose Awareness Week. "Beating the opioid overdose epidemic is an urgent priority," he said. And he urged one and all to strengthen collective efforts to prevent overdose deaths.

Foundation for a Drug-Free World stands ready to help anyone join the movement to protect youth from the dangers of drugs. Thanks to the support of the Church of Scientology and Scientologists, the Foundation, one of the world's largest nongovernmental drug education and prevention campaigns, makes its youth-friendly booklets and videos available free of charge.

Foundation for a Drug-Free Word also features free online drug education courses that dispel pro-drug propaganda and help youth understand what drugs are and what they do.

Scientology Churches hold community open house events and offer free training and materials to anyone wishing to take part in this movement to help youth.

The Scientology Network shows humanitarians in action using The Truth About Drugs to help kids avoid the tragedy of drug abuse. Episodes of the original series Voices for Humanity document their work and the effectiveness of the program:

* David Sanchez was only 9 when a neighbor offered him marijuana and started him on a lifelong struggle with drug addiction. By the time he turned 15, his life was consumed by alcohol and methamphetamine, leading to a stint in juvenile jail. Graduating to heroin and time in multiple penitentiaries, the turning point came in 2012 when he finally conquered his addiction. In 2014, Sanchez cofounded Beacon of Hope, the largest adult sober living home in Los Angeles. Remembering how his nightmare began with that first hit, he founded Strike Out Against Drugs to educate his community on the truth about drugs using Foundation for a Drug-Free World materials. To date, David Sanchez has reached around 1.5 million people with an anti-drug message and changed the lives of countless kids.

* As a teenager, Darren Tessitore watched as drugs claimed the lives of many of his friends. Now the father of three dedicates himself to educating as many kids as possible on the dangers of drugs and delivers his anti-drug message to millions. Convinced that his close friends who died drug-related deaths might be alive today if they had been fully aware of the dangers drugs posed, Tessitore dedicated himself to teaching kids about the dangers of drugs as a preventative measure. He discovered Foundation for a Drug-Free World's Truth About Drugs program and advocated its use-first in high school driver's education programs. Schools across the country heard of his success and began clamoring for the materials and information he presented. Then he partnered with police-affiliated school resource officers. Through seminars, presentations and the educational materials he has distributed, Tessitore has reached an estimated 3.1 million students with the truth about drugs.

* Michael DeLeon's world came to a crashing halt when he suddenly found himself addicted to drugs and in prison. Once released, he founded the nonprofit Steered Straight and dedicated himself to helping kids by sharing his own story and educating them on the dangers of drugs. In his Voices for Humanity episode, DeLeon describes how he was searching for a way to get through to kids. He googled "drugs are a lie" and a Drug-Free World video popped up. "Man, I could almost cry," he says, and he realized "this is it!" This was exactly what he needed. The #1 booked drug prevention lecturer in U.S. schools, he uses the Drug-Free World materials in all his presentations.

Drug prevention has long been recognized as a vital service to communities, but never more than now, in light of drug overdose trends.

The UN Office on Drugs and Crime states: "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." And the Office urges communities to "support drug abuse prevention based on scientific evidence as an investment in the wellbeing of children, adolescents, youth, families and communities."

The Church of Scientology and Scientologists reach out to their communities during Overdose Awareness Week and throughout the year with the Foundation's The Truth About Drugs series of fourteen illustrated drug information booklets containing facts about the most commonly abused drugs.

LEARN MORE:

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

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

https://www.drugfreeworld.org

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/SFaNBezJPc8

Volunteers from Scientology Churches, Missions and groups fight drug overdose during Overdose Awareness Week and throughout the year with the truth - The Truth About Drugs initiative of Foundation for a Drug-Free World.

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

Scientology Volunteer Ministers Reach Out Once Again with Help

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Volunteer Ministers from Scientology Churches in Florida returned to The Bahamas as promised to provide training to help local communities become self-sufficient in times of disaster.

In 2019, a team of Scientology Volunteer Ministers helped in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian with the search and rescue effort and cleanup, and provided food and supplies to communities hardest hit by the storm. When they completed their disaster response, officials invited them back to train local residents so the next time disaster strikes they can be prepared. But several months later the pandemic struck.

Now, with COVID-related travel restrictions lifted, the volunteers returned to the island as promised. And those who attended their training are so glad they did.

The Volunteer Ministers provided a series of seminars in Lewis Yard, a community in West End Grand Bahama that was devastated by Hurricane Dorian.

A Volunteer Minister, who is also a certified EMT, trained those attending on how to administer CPR - an emergency life-saving procedure that is done when someone's breathing or heartbeat has stopped. She followed this with training on "Stop the Bleed" -basic trauma care to stop or slow bleeding during emergencies. Each seminar included practical drills through which those attending gained confidence in their ability to use the techniques to save lives.

This was followed by training in the use of Scientology assists - techniques developed by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard that can help people recover from stress, loss and trauma. In addition to showing them how to use these techniques and having them practice them on each other, the Volunteer Minister shared examples of how she has helped survivors recover from the shock of losing a loved one and assisted people to overcome hopelessness so they can get on with rebuilding their lives. She encouraged them to visit the Scientology website to enroll on the Scientology Tools for Life Assists for Illnesses and Injuries Course to gain more information and find additional assists they can learn and use.

One community leader, who helped organize and attended the seminars, said the Scientology team has ignited "a spark of hope in the community." She now looks forward to preparing surrounding communities so they too can be self-sufficient when disaster strikes.

Whether serving in their communities or on the other side of the world, the motto of the Scientology Volunteer Minister is "Something can be done about it." The program, created by Mr. Hubbard in the mid-1970s, is sponsored by the Church of Scientology International as a religious social service and constitutes one of the world's most significant independent relief forces.

The Volunteer Minister "helps his fellow man on a volunteer basis by restoring purpose, truth and spiritual values to the lives of others."

The Scientology Network features Scientology: Tools for Life, an introduction to the basic principles and technology that comprise the training of the Volunteer Minister. These films present practical tools anybody may learn and use to overcome problems, live a happier life, and better the lives of those around them.

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. 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.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology.tv/films/scientology-principles/tools-for-life.html

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/nGRWeCFOtI8

Volunteer Ministers from Scientology Churches in Florida returned to The Bahamas as promised to provide training to help local communities become self-sufficient in times of disaster. The Volunteer Ministers provided a series of seminars in Lewis Yard, a community in West End Grand Bahama that was devastated by Hurricane Dorian.

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

Danish Volunteers Say Learning About Drug Abuse Can Save Your Life

COPENHAGEN, Denmark /ScoopCloud/ -- Volunteers from the Church of Scientology of Denmark share the Truth About Drugs, raising awareness on the danger of drugs including overdose, the subject of International Drug Overdose Awareness Day, August 31.

Passionate about helping youth avoid the tragedy of drug abuse and addiction and the growing crisis of overdose deaths, Scientologists of Copenhagen take action with drug prevention.

For example, volunteers from the Church of Scientology Denmark brought their Truth About Drugs initiative to the kick-off of this year's Tour de France in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Through his research into the mind, spirit and life, Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard found drugs to be "the single most destructive element present in our current culture." And to take effective action against the damage of drugs to the individual and society, the Church of Scientology of Denmark sponsors a chapter of Foundation for a Drug-Free World.

Using the Foundation's Truth About Drugs initiative, volunteers educate youth and adults on what drugs are and what they do.

So earlier this summer, when the Tour de France held its initial stage or "Grand Départ" in Copenhagen, volunteers in their signature teal Truth About Drugs T-shirts joined fans gathered to give a send-off to the team, whose Jonas Vingegaard brought home the yellow jersey of the Tour's overall champion-the first Dane to achieve this honor since 1996.

Copenhagen is known as the world's most bicycle-friendly city, and the anti-drug cyclists from the Church of Scientology were perfectly at home with their banner and booklets, riding through the city to promote the truth about drugs.

Drug prevention has long been recognized as a vital service to communities, but never more than now, in light of drug overdose trends. The UN Office on Drugs and Crime states, "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." And the Office urges communities to "support drug abuse prevention based on scientific evidence as an investment in the wellbeing of children, adolescents, youth, families and communities."

The Church of Scientology Denmark is an Ideal Scientology Organization, dedicated in May 2017 by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige. 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 people of all denominations.

The Church of Scientology Denmark is featured in an episode of Destination Scientology on the Scientology Network, which 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.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.drugfreeworld.org

https://en.scientology-denmark.org/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/SFaNBezJPc8

Volunteers from the Church of Scientology of Denmark share the Truth About Drugs, raising awareness on the danger of drugs including overdose, the subject of International Drug Overdose Awareness Day, August 31.

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

Scientology Churches Urge Action to Save Lives from Drug Overdose

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Scientology Churches and Scientologists mark International Drug Overdose Awareness Day by bringing the truth about drugs to bear against the deadly pandemic of overdose deaths. Drug overdose doesn't discriminate. It honors no borders. It strikes anyone and anywhere. And its allies are ignorance and deception.

This is why Scientologists the world over, working with like-minded groups and individuals, are launching International Overdose Awareness Day activities to promote drug prevention to end the senseless deaths.

Never has drug education and prevention been more important:

* The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that some 108,000 people in the U.S. died of drug overdoses from February 2021 to February 2022. Of those, more than 70 percent involved fentanyl and other synthetic opioids.

* Though overdose deaths are considerably lower in the UK than in the U.S., the British Medical Journal describes escalating rates of drug-related deaths in that country as "a public health crisis," with record numbers, the highest in Europe, increasing over the past decade.

* The number of Australians dying of unintentional drug overdose each year also continues to rise.

What is the answer?

The UN Office on Drugs and Crime states: "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."

The Church of Scientology and Scientologists support Foundation for a Drug-Free World, the world's largest nongovernmental education initiative. They sponsor Drug-Free World chapters, host drug prevention open house programs, and reach out to their communities on International Overdose Awareness Day and throughout the year with the Foundation's The Truth About Drugs series of fourteen illustrated drug information booklets containing facts about the most commonly abused drugs.

To make these resources broadly available, Scientology Network broadcasts:

* The Foundation's The Truth About Drugs: Real People-Real Stories documentary

* They Said-They Lied public service announcements

* Voices for Humanity episodes featuring drug-prevention activists who are saving young lives that would otherwise be lost to drugs.

The Church of Scientology International Dissemination and Distribution Center produces and distributes The Truth About Drugs Education Package free of charge to drug education instructors, law enforcement agencies, and government and private sector institutions.

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. 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.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.drugfreeworld.org/

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

MULTIMEDIA:

https://youtu.be/YAHVESjVkWs

Scientology Churches and Scientologists mark International Drug Overdose Awareness Day by bringing the truth about drugs to bear against the deadly pandemic of overdose deaths. Drug overdose doesn't discriminate. It honors no borders.

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

Scientology Volunteer Ministers Honored for Their Service to South Africa

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- For World Humanitarian Day, celebrated annually on August 19, the Church of Scientology honors the Volunteer Ministers of South Africa. At a recent celebration at Kyalami Castle in Midrand, South Africa, officials from across the country joined the Church in thanking the Scientology Volunteer Ministers for their service since the pandemic began. Volunteer Ministers contributed more than a million hours assisting the government and private sector to care for the most vulnerable.

Those attending included the MEC (Member of the Executive Council) for Health of the Social Development Department and officials of the Department of Justice of Gauteng. South African Local Government Association (SALGA) was also on hand, along with National Disaster Management.

The Chief of Police of the Tshwane Metro Police, and Emergency Services of Tshwane, Joburg and Ekurhuleni, representative of Mogale City and many police officers of Gauteng attended as well.

The MEC of Health Gauteng, Dr. Nomathemba Mokgethi, and the MEC of Education, Mr. Panyaza Lesufi, acknowledged two Scientology Volunteer Ministers in particular who were part of the volunteer force since the lockdown began in 2020. They each contributed more than 2,000 hours of service to the community.

Other volunteers awarded contributed at least 100 volunteer hours, many of them between 1,000 and 2,000 hours.

Mr. Freddy Williams of the Tshwane Emergency Services presented a special acknowledgment to the Church of Scientology. The Church organized and coordinated these volunteers to combat the pandemic. Volunteer Minister South Africa spokesperson Sandile Hlayisi accepted the award, crediting Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard for the program, the technology, and the passion to help South Africa.

The Church of Scientology Volunteer Ministers program is a religious social service created in the mid-1970s by L. Ron Hubbard. It constitutes one of the world's largest independent relief forces.

Mr. Hubbard described a Volunteer Minister as "a person who helps his fellow man on a volunteer basis by restoring purpose, 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."

Their motto is no matter the circumstances, "Something can be done about it."

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."

For more information on the Scientology Volunteer Ministers of South Africa, visit the Scientology website.

LEARN MORE:

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

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

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/I5ENd7YVi-M

For World Humanitarian Day, celebrated annually on August 19, the Church of Scientology honors the Volunteer Ministers of South Africa. Volunteer Ministers contributed more than a million hours assisting the government and private sector to care for the most vulnerable.

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

Human Rights Initiative Empowers Youth to Become Advocates for Tolerance and Peace

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- On International Youth Day 2022, the Scientology Network features Youth for Human Rights International in episodes of "Voices for Humanity." Youth for Human Rights has inspired an entire generation of human rights activists to create change in their communities and countries.

"In 2001, when we began Youth for Human Rights International, 90 percent of those surveyed were unable to name more than three of the 30 rights granted by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights," says the organization's founder and president Dr. Mary Shuttleworth. "Almost half the world's population is under 25. And they are hardest hit by the world's inequalities and injustices."

Youth for Human Rights stresses raising awareness and understanding of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Changing the state of human rights in the world depends on an understanding of the rights enshrined in the document. And the group's audiovisual properties make the history of human rights and each of the 30 rights simple to understand.

According to the United Nations, "67 percent of people believe in a better future, with 15- to 17-year-olds being the most optimistic about this."

Youth for Human Rights educational materials empower youth to accomplish the future they envision. Inspired by L. Ron Hubbard's belief that "human rights must be made a fact, not an idealistic dream," the Church of Scientology and Scientologists support Youth for Human Rights and make these materials available to educators, law enforcement, nonprofits and community leaders free of charge.

"Voices for Humanity," an original series on the Scientology Network, documents how human rights advocates are creating positive change using the Youth for Human Rights initiative.

* Two decades after the end of a civil war that claimed 200,000 lives, the people of Guatemala still struggle with the human rights abuses committed by their military. Coming of age in the aftermath of such destruction, Cynthia Guerra committed herself to right those wrongs. Today, as president of Youth for Human Rights Guatemala, she leads a nationwide program to educate civilians, police and the military on human rights.

* For over two decades, the people of The Gambia suffered under a brutal dictatorship. Nfamara Jawneh spread the message of human rights, a campaign now credited with helping usher in a new era of democracy in the country. Partnering with Youth for Human Rights, Jawneh continues to work tirelessly across The Gambia and internationally, training and educating tens of thousands of students on their human rights.

* Sheena Chohan is a well-known Bollywood actress and TV personality. In press interviews, as a television host of the Bangladesh Premier Cricket League, and every chance she gets, she reaches millions with her message of the importance of knowing human rights to make South Asia a safer place for everyone.

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

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. 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.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

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

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/Fm8M3ojBreI

On International Youth Day 2022, the Scientology Network features Youth for Human Rights International in episodes of "Voices for Humanity." Youth for Human Rights has inspired an entire generation of human rights activists to create change in their communities and countries.

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

How Secular Programs Supported by the Church of Scientology Help and Empower Youth

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- In honor of International Youth Day, August 12, the Church of Scientology shares humanitarian initiatives to help young people set a positive course for their lives and thrive.

It's a very challenging time for youth. On the eve of International Youth Day 2022:

* Some 1.2 billion children are living in poverty worldwide.

* About 152 million children age 5-17 are subject to child labor.

* In the U.S., adolescent overdose deaths have doubled since 2010.

* One-third of the world's youth suffer from bullying.

The Church of Scientology and Scientologists are committed to providing youth with the tools they need to survive. One way they do this is by supporting humanitarian and social betterment programs:

* United for Human Rights and Youth for Human Rights International are initiatives that help youth understand the 30 rights of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Their booklets and audiovisual materials make it simple to understand these rights and inspire them to become advocates for tolerance and peace.

* Foundation for a Drug-Free World presents the truth about drugs with youth-friendly videos and booklets that help young people make the self-determined decision to live drug-free.

* The Way to Happiness Foundation uplifts communities through "The Way to Happiness," the common-sense guide to better living written by humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard. People of all faiths and none use this booklet to instill values and increase their own chances of survival and the survival of others.

Anyone wishing to use these initiatives is invited to watch "Voices for Humanity," an original series on the Scientology Network. Episodes document how changemakers of all faiths, cultures and nations extend help to their communities and create positive change for youth through these humanitarian programs-all of them available free of charge thanks to the support of the Church of Scientology and Scientologists:

* In Colombia, Ingrida Lingyte learned that 70 percent of youth believed that marijuana was not dangerous and that using drugs was cool. Knowing firsthand the devastation substance abuse causes, she and her team have redefined "cool" by reaching one-fifth of the population of Colombia with the Truth About Drugs.

* Indian actor and television personality Sheena Chohan is a Youth for Human Rights Ambassador. She reaches millions with her message of the importance of knowing human rights to make South Asia a safer place for everyone.

* In Denver, Colorado, Rev. Leon Kelly is turning around the lives of ex-offenders and hard-core gang members with "The Way to Happiness."

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. 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.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

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

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/feYDc1T0GqM

In honor of International Youth Day, August 12, the Church of Scientology shares humanitarian initiatives to help young people set a positive course for their lives and thrive.

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

Scientology Tokyo, Where the Best of Modern Technology and Tradition Meet

TOKYO, Japan /ScoopCloud/ -- "Destination: Scientology" takes viewers to the Land of the Rising Sun, in celebration of the anniversary of the August 8, 2015, dedication of the Church of Scientology Tokyo. Tokyo is a city of contrasts. It combines reverence for ancient traditions with a love of technology in the world's most future-forward metropolis. The most populous city in the world, Tokyo is also one of the cleanest and safest. And in the heart of the Shinjuku district-just minutes from the busiest train station on Earth serving 3.6 million commuters each day-is the Church of Scientology Tokyo, where technology and spirituality intersect.

On the anniversary of the dedication of the Church of Scientology Tokyo, parishioners and staff extend an invitation to watch an episode of the original series "Destination: Scientology-Tokyo" on the Scientology Network. Learn of Tokyo's history and traditions, with visits to its treasured temples, shrines and tranquil sakura gardens. Marvel as some 3,000 pedestrians navigate their way through Shibuya Crossing simultaneously.

"One of the most important things is Japan's culture of wisdom," says Masayoshi, a staff member at the Church of Scientology Tokyo.

"That is the beauty of our Church," says Mihuki, another staff member. "Scientology means 'knowing how to know.' And it's all about knowing yourself and knowing life. So, we want to bring that wisdom to the people of Japan. We are here to empower Japanese spirit, our culture, and our people."

In dedicating the Church of Scientology Tokyo in August 2015, Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige described the city as "a place of convergence between East and West" where "the ancient harmonizes with the modern, and all is knitted together by hope. So, what better place to witness the coalescence of spirituality and technology?"

The Church of Scientology Tokyo 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.

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-tokyo.org/

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

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

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/2_aYk5vUAvw

"Destination: Scientology" takes viewers to the Land of the Rising Sun, in celebration of the anniversary of the August 8, 2015, dedication of the Church of Scientology Tokyo. Tokyo is a city of contrasts. It combines reverence for ancient traditions with a love of technology in the world's most future-forward metropolis.

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

How Were So Many Duped by the Chemical Imbalance Theory of Mental Health?

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- As the scandal spreads about a recent study finding no scientific evidence behind the use of SSRIs-and with pundits connecting the dots that while more and more Americans are using these drugs, suicide rates continue to rise-many are feeling betrayed. Find out how these drugs were approved in the first place. Watch "The Marketing of Madness" on the Scientology Network.

"Depression is not caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain," reads a recent headline in Psychology Today. As a professor of psychiatry at University College London and consultant psychiatrist at North East London National Health Service Foundation Trust revealed, "after a vast amount of research conducted over several decades, there is no convincing evidence that depression is caused by serotonin abnormalities."

So how did this happen?

"The Marketing of Madness: Are We All Insane? " a Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR) documentary that airs on the Scientology Network, details how psychiatrists joined with pharmaceutical companies to market drugs directly to consumers.

Convincing the public that they, their children and even their babies, have a mental disease in order to prescribe their drugs has proved very profitable for psychiatrists and drug marketers.

But how did they get these drugs approved? The film documents that:

* Drug safety testing is predominantly done by drug companies themselves, not by governmental agencies or independent labs, creating an obvious conflict of interest.

* Psychiatrists have no scientific lab tests to objectively measure improvement, which permits researchers many opportunities to skew results of drug trials in the pharmaceutical company's favor.

* There are many, many ways of biasing trials to avoid negative findings or accentuate the positive.

As one drug expert interviewed in the film states, "It can be proven that most claimed research findings are false"-a fact that has now exploded in international media, creating a firestorm.

As the news of the study broke, Citizens Commission on Human Rights International President Jan Eastgate wrote, "The research confirms what CCHR has been exposing since the late 1980s: the chemical imbalance theory has always been a marketing campaign with no basis in science. The fact is the chemical imbalance myth has helped drive $15.6 billion-a-year global antidepressant sales. In light of the study's damning findings, media dubbed this the '$15 billion hustle.'"

Citizens Commission on Human Rights was cofounded in 1969 by professor of psychiatry Dr. Thomas Szasz and the Church of Scientology. With headquarters in Los Angeles, California, CCHR International guides a global human rights advocacy network of some 180 chapters across more than 30 nations. CCHR Commissioners include physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, lawyers, legislators, government officials, educators and civil rights representatives.

The Scientology Network debuted on March 12, 2018. Since launching with a special featuring Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige, the 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. Among its unique programming is a series of documentaries produced by CCHR. 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/series/cchr-documentaries/marketing-of-madness.html

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

https://www.scientology.tv/series/cchr-documentaries/

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/i7Q1MBqB1hk

As the scandal spreads about a recent study finding no scientific evidence behind the use of SSRIs-and with pundits connecting the dots that while more and more Americans are using these drugs, suicide rates continue to rise-many are feeling betrayed. Find out how these drugs were approved in the first place. Watch "The Marketing of Madness" on the Scientology Network.

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

Church of Scientology Harlem Celebrates the Culture and Community of its Unique Home

HARLEM, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- In honor of the anniversary of the opening of the Church of Scientology and Community Center of Harlem, go behind the scenes with 'Destination: Scientology' an original series on the Scientology Network. Harlem has always marched to its own beat - in music, art and fashion - a beat that has reverberated around the world.

"There is nowhere else like Harlem," said Mr. David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, when he dedicated the new Church and community center on July 31, 2016. "Your renaissance poets, your playwrights, your painters, your authors and musicians-even a mere recitation of the names is humbling: Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway, Billie Holiday, Claude McKay and Louis Armstrong. What else need one say except 'excise Harlem from American history and everything turns lukewarm.'"

The staff and parishioners of the Church are equally passionate about Harlem and work each day to strengthen the vibrant community.

"Harlem is the capital of Black America," says Phil, a staff member at the Church. "We are brothers and sisters in Harlem. It's a very, very proud community. We have this vibe, this kind of swagger." Phil loves that "families can come, artists can come, they can get together and create a better community."

But Harlem also moves to a Latin beat says Sashianna, who describes how "growing up in Harlem is one of the best experiences you can have because you see what a real community is like. We have so much culture, we have so much art. I like to call it 'we have our own sazón'...our own type of flavor and our own seasoning to whatever we do."

In Destination Scientology: Harlem, viewers see how the Church has become a hub for this community, offering free tutoring for youngsters, performances by world-class artists, hosting an international delegation of human rights activists, and opening the Church for community activities and interfaith conferences.

The Church of Scientology Harlem 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.

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 airs 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/series/destination-scientology/

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

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

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/wOs_NVaDYOw

In honor of the anniversary of the opening of the Church of Scientology and Community Center of Harlem, go behind the scenes with 'Destination: Scientology' an original series on the Scientology Network. Harlem has always marched to its own beat - in music, art and fashion - a beat that has reverberated around the world.

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

Scientology Volunteer Ministers of South Africa Help Create the Country of Their Dreams

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- On Mandela Day and throughout the year, the bright yellow jacket of the Scientology Volunteer Minister has become a symbol of service and the ability to make a difference. This year, Mandela Day marked a milestone for the Scientology Volunteer Ministers of South Africa: 8,000 people have now joined their ranks by completing all 19 Tools for Life courses.

The UN set aside Nelson Mandela's birthday 18 July to celebrate the man and his impact, calling on people to make a difference in their communities and change the world for the better by taking action and inspiring change.

"At a time when so much of the world is beset by hardship and strife," said South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa in honor of the day, "we are inspired by Madiba's words that 'it is in our hands to make a difference and to make the world a better place. Let us evoke Madiba's 'new patriotism,' where South Africans are determined to work together and make our country a winning nation."

And the Volunteer Ministers of South Africa and the training they provide are doing exactly that.

Just last week, 230 educators including teachers, principals and department of education officials were awarded their Volunteer Ministers certificates at a graduation at Kyalami Castle in Midrand, Scientology headquarters for Africa.

"These courses changed my life," said a police department community educator. "They gave me a full understanding of other people and how to deal with them. As police officers, we are used to dealing with people who can get very rude, call us names and get very disrespectful. I used to get angry back and it was just degrading. But now that I understand people and how their emotions work, I just wait for them to have their temper. I remain calm, and then when they are finished, I continue with my communication. I end up having people apologize for lashing out at me and telling me all the stresses going on at home. Even with my Early Childhood Development Centre, I used to help parents with their children based on what I hoped was correct. But now, I am trained to handle every situation. I just apply one or more of the tools. I have gained the respect of others around me. These courses have really put me in a good space."

After graduating, a primary school teacher said, "I am a Volunteer Minister now! My help is yours. I am going to get my fellow teachers to study these courses and graduate too. If everyone who has studied these courses got someone else enrolled, we would be looking at a different world. And it is doable. We each have our work cut out for us. Well, I will be doing my part."

A successful retired farmer recently hosted a professional development and mentoring seminar at Castle Kyalami for 120 agricultural entrepreneurs and advisors, training them on the Tools for Life to achieve poverty alleviation, sustainable agriculture, and combat unemployment among agricultural graduates.

Concerned about the problems and failure among smallholding farms, she decided to teach others the same skills she learned and used from the Scientology Volunteer Ministers community development program.

"After I came across the Tools for Life program, I put it into application," she said. "And I am still experiencing success even long after turning the farm over to my daughter. I have retired and I now want to impart knowledge from my experience as my humanitarian mission to create better lives."

The Tools for Life courses contain the skills Volunteer Ministers use to change life for the better. The Church of Scientology Volunteer Ministers program is a religious social service created in the mid-1970s by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard. It constitutes one of the world's largest independent relief forces.

As he described, a Volunteer Minister's mandate is to be "a person who helps his fellow man on a volunteer basis by restoring purpose, 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."

Their motto is no matter the circumstances, "Something can be done about it."

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."

For more information on the Volunteer Ministers of South Africa, visit the interactive timeline on the Scientology website.

LEARN MORE:

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

https://www.facebook.com/kyalamicastle

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/I5ENd7YVi-M

On Mandela Day and throughout the year, the bright yellow jacket of the Scientology Volunteer Minister has become a symbol of service and the ability to make a difference. This year, Mandela Day marked a milestone for the Scientology Volunteer Ministers of South Africa.

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

Scientologists Salute Their People, Culture and Country on ‘Destination Scientology: Mexico City’

MEXICO CITY, Mexico /ScoopCloud/ -- Share the energy and spirit of Mexico's premier Church of Scientology as it works with the community to create an even brighter future for all. Mexico City, one of the largest metropolitan areas on Earth, combines ancient traditions, colonial influence and 21st-century cosmopolitan culture in its own unique style.

Its pre-Columbian pyramid, Templo Mayor, an ever-present reminder of the city's Aztec forebears, stands next to the Metropolitan Cathedral, whose striking architecture recalls the city's Spanish past.

And just a half mile west, 7,000 Scientologists and their guests welcomed the National Church of Scientology of Mexico as Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige dedicated the new Church on July 10, 2010.

In honor of their anniversary, the Church of Scientology extends an invitation to one and all to watch "Destination: Mexico City"-an episode of "Destination Scientology" on the Scientology Network.

"Mexicans tend to be friendly people and they like to enjoy the moment," says one of the Scientologists interviewed in the episode. "We have this phrase," says another, "'My house is your house.' It's really like that. You're part of a really big family."

In this episode, experience the energy and spirit of the city. Journey through one of the most important cultural centers in the Western Hemisphere with local Church members as your guide. And with stops at Alameda Central, the oldest public park in the Americas, and the historic city center with its iconic Angel of Independence monument, get a taste of the breathtaking beauty of this 7,000-foot-high city.

"Destination: Scientology, Mexico City" also tells the story of how, during the September 2017 earthquake, the Church of Scientology served as headquarters for emergency response, uniting volunteer rescue teams and volunteers from throughout the region, working day and night to bring help and hope to those affected by the disaster. "Everyone has this desire to help," said one Church staff member summing up the community spirit. "We all belong to the same movement to make the world a better place."

"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/series/destination-scientology/

https://www.scientology.tv/series/destination-scientology/mexico-city.html

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

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/8kyYx__7j4s

Share the energy and spirit of Mexico's premier Church of Scientology as it works with the community to create an even brighter future for all. Mexico City, one of the largest metropolitan areas on Earth, combines ancient traditions, colonial influence and 21st-century cosmopolitan culture in its own unique style.

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

Scientology Volunteer Ministers Say Something Can Be Done to Help Youth Excel

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- As the UN launches its Youth Skills Day campaign for 2022 with its motto "transforming youth skills for the future," Scientology Volunteer Ministers are providing educators throughout South Africa with the tools to accomplish this goal.

In America, where 79 percent of adults are considered literate, some 14 percent actually lack the literacy necessary to cope with most jobs and many everyday situations. If that is the case in the U.S., how do youth fare in underdeveloped regions such as sub-Saharan Africa where one in three adults cannot read, and youth literacy is the lowest of any region?

Is there a simple way to accomplish the goal of the UN's July 15 Youth Skills Day campaign: to "transform youth skills for the future"? Scientology Volunteer Ministers say there is, and they are already well on their way to putting their solution into effect. They are helping empower educators with seminars at Kyalami Castle, Scientology headquarters in South Africa.

The results are dramatic.

At Makgongoana Secondary school in Mankweng, a township in Limpopo Province, passing rate of graduating students was an underperforming 39 percent. After implementing the Volunteer Ministers program, the school had the highest pass rate in the district for three years in a row.

This transformation began when William Ramodike, deputy principal of the school and pastor at the local Zion Christian Church, searched for solutions. And he learned about an Empowerment and Success Interfaith Seminar to be delivered by the Scientology Volunteer Ministers at Castle Kyalami.

"I was introduced to a free life skills community development program called Tools for Life," he said of the seminar. "It became clear to me that God had led me to the right place. The program trained me on skills to handle study difficulties, communication, conflict resolution, achieving goals, ethics, and much more."

Convinced he had found a practical way to resolve study problems, he immediately applied what he learned.

"And it brought fantastic results," he said.

He began by implementing Study Technology, methods developed by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard that have 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 part of the Tools For Life courses, available in 18 languages including Zulu through the Scientology website.

School principal Dr. S.E.L Modjadji backed Ramodike's implementation, which was so successful that it increased the school's graduating pass rate from 39 to over 80 percent.

"These tools for life really changed my life because they are applicable in any situation in society," said Ramodike. "They help me facilitate lessons, help my fellow pastors in church, handle my household affairs and anything life can throw at me."

Study Technology has empowered his students to learn skills they need to escape poverty and set a new course for themselves, their communities and country.

"We are more than just helping kids pass," said Ramodike. "We are also ensuring that they become valuable and contributing members of society who can make a positive change."

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. And for more information on the work of the Scientology Volunteer Ministers of South Africa, visit the interactive timeline on the Scientology website.

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

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/dr-olatunde-odewumi.html

https://www.scientology.org/courses/

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

MULTIMEDIA:

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/WaLkJyOZFDc

As the UN launches its Youth Skills Day campaign for 2022 with its motto "transforming youth skills for the future," Scientology Volunteer Ministers are providing educators throughout South Africa with the tools to accomplish this goal.

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