Year in Review
As 2006 winds to a close, it is time to reflect on everything we are thankful for and set new goals for 2007. Where do you want to be a year from now?Five years?Ten?I will be posting my ideas here over the coming days. Feel free to do the same.

The Tone Scale

I had the occasion to be very glad I knew about the Tone Scale the other day.

I had to make a decision about which of two people to trust. They were saying almost opposite things. And it was really hard to tell who was lying.

Fortunately I was able to spot that one of the two was in a tone level called "covert hostility." So I went with the other guy.

I was sure glad I did. It turned out when I verified the information that if I'd accepted what the covert guy was saying I would have been in serious trouble. It was a fabric of lies!

Scientology Volunteer Ministers Restoring Calm in Strike-Ridden Kolkata

Despite the violence of a general strike Scientology Volunteer Ministers set up their tent in the heart of Kolkata on International Volunteer Day and helped nearly a thousand people just that afternoon — one person at a time.

This year, International Volunteer Day was marred by violence in Kolkata, described by some media as "a cauldron of street protest... bringing business to a halt."

Some schools, shut down when the general strike was called earlier in the week, stayed closed; others were opened but remained empty. Rumors of new violence spread throughout the day, and few ventured out into the streets. >> continued

Thoughts on Human Rights Day

I found this article on the Scientology Human Rights Forum site and it got me thinking.

What do you think would happen if even 5% of the population because staunch human rights advocates?

I think that those who like to abuse human rights would find themselves so outnumbered that they'd get the **** out of there and let the rest of us get on with living our lives in peace.

Two Very Special Scientology Ceremonies at the Church of Scientology of Madrid

I found this story on the Scientology Press Office site

When Maria Luisa Pérez was ordained as a Scientology Minister this week at the Church of Scientology of Spain, it was not only a celebration of the help she can now provide the Scientology community in Madrid, it was also the accomplishment of a very important personal goal. Newly ordained Scientology minister Rev. Maria Luisa Pérez performed the naming ceremony of her own granddaughter, at the Church of Scientology of Spain in Madrid. Being ordained as a Scientology minister signals the completion of extensive training. But it also carries with it recognition by the Church that the ministerial candidate has demonstrated the highest ethical standards and a true commitment to helping others. As in all Scientology ordinations, Maria pledged to honor the Scientology codes of conduct and set an example to other Scientologists by her ethics, tolerance and care. >> continued

Church of Scientology of Auckland, New Zealand

I see the Church of Scientology of Auckland has a news web site at www.scientology.co.nz.

It's been good to ready on Scientology Today how active New Zealand Scientologists are in the Volunteer Ministers movement.

Helping Others -a Way of Life

I remeber when I first read about the 8 dynamics of existence. It really affirmed something I've always believed -- that one is as alive as he or she is in communication with and helping others.

I've tried to live my life according to that realization, and always put time in on volunteer projects.

I feel I've gained as much from doing this as I've given - perhaps even more.

My thoughts for Volunteer Day 2006.

Help Needed in the Philippines

It's almost a deja vu with Christmas exactly three weeks away, and 1000 dead in the aftermath of Typhoon Durian.

If you can help, your help is needed. Join the Scientology Volunteer Ministers disaster relief team.

Contact the VM coordinator for more information at vm@volunteerministers.org

More on Scientology Weddings

With all the interest in Scientology weddings, it reminded me of my own.

My favorite part of the wedding was when the minister had us create an A-R-C Triangle in the center of the rings, to represent our commitment to continuing to create the Affinity of our relationship through Communication. There is a chapter on A-R-C in the Scientology Handbook

The reason I love that is because I've continued to use it as a tool through the years and it works every single time. It's probably the most basic, elementary Scientology principle L. Ron Hubbard ever wrote down, but one of the most powerful.

Here's a video about the Scientology "wedding of the year"

Tom & Katie: Bullet Point Wedding Guide

WEDDING RECAP

It was a star-studded affair as Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes exchanged vows Saturday in the tiny town of Bracciano, Italy. Here's a quick look at all of the wedding details!

The bride:
Katie Holmes wore an ivory silk Swarovski crystal embroidered, floor-length gown designed by Giorgio Armani. The low-cut dress, decorated with a crinoline frill at the shoulders and a silk border around the hem, also had a train in ivory silk cadis adorned in Valenciennes lace. Katie also wore an ivory tulle floor length veil and ivory silk shoes, and she carried a bouquet of flowers, including calla lilies, that was made by Armani. At the reception that followed the ceremony, Holmes wore a peach-colored Armani evening dress of silk organza decorated with Swarovski crystal beads.

The groom:
Tom Cruise also dressed in Armani -- wearing what the designer described as a navy blue single-breasted silk suit with a matching vest, an ivory silk shirt that was made of the same fabric as the bride's gown and a silk tie.

The baby:
The couple's 7-month-old daughter Suri also was dressed in Armani, the designer said, describing a little white wool bloomer dress, decorated in tulle. Armani said he made the outfit simple, not wanting to exaggerate the dress of a child.

The rings:
Tom and Katie's rings were white gold Cartier with diamonds.

The guests:
Among the over 150 guests in attendance were Will and Jada Pinkett Smith, Victoria Beckham, Jim Carrey, Jenny McCarthy, Brooke Shields and husband Chris Henchy, Jenna Elfman, Victoria Beckham and Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony.

The wedding party:
The wedding party included Tom's children, Isabella and Connor. The best man was Tom's best friend, David Miscavige – the head of the Church of Scientology. The matron of honor was Katie's sister Nancy Blaylock.

The music:
Italian opera superstar Andrea Bocelli performed for those in attendance.

The cake:
Five-tiered white chocolate, decorated with marzipan roses, and studded with white chocolate chips.

The gift:
Katie bought Tom a Vacheron Constantin watch from a high-end Beverly Hills jewelry store. On the back of the watch, she had the message "I Love You" engraved. The Malte Dual Time Regulator in Rose Gold (pictured below) is valued at $23,000.

UntitledScientology Wedding at the Odescalchi castle

Patrizia Riccioni, Mayor of Bracciano, north of Rome, poses in front of the Odescalchi castle November 17, 2006. Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes are tipped to have chosen a 15th century castle just outside of Rome as the location for.

It isn't often a woman gets to have a totally fairy tale wedding. And a Scientology wedding at that. But everything about the romance of these two is charmed.

Flogck.com

Tour: blogging

A friend of mine just told me about Flock.com today.  It is an incredibly easy way to blog.  Much more fun doing it this way.  Check it out.

Scientology Volunteer Ministers Video

Here's a video on the Scientology Volunteer Ministers that smokes!

A found this blog today:
Pulling Together for a New World

Found some interesting stories on Scientology there, and decided to add Robert the Fox to my blogroll.

Scientology Beliefs

"The word "Scientology" means "the study of knowledge or truth." The Scientology religion holds that man is basically good, not evil. It teaches that it is their experiences that cause people to commit evil deeds. It is not their basic nature to do so. People can also mistakenly solve their problems by thinking only of their own personal interests and overlook or ignore how their acts may affect others. This creates interpersonal strife and problems. The Scientology religion also holds that individuals advance to the degree they preserve their spiritual integrity and values, and remain honest and decent. Indeed, individuals deteriorate to the degree they abandon these qualities."

From the web site of the US Navy Chaplain Dept.

Another Photo of the London Org!

Here's another photo of the grand opening of the Church of Scientology of of London.

You can't see it really clearly but I think this is a photo of the ribbon cutting, where David Miscavige, Alderman Ian Luder, Kevin Hurley and Dr.Iftikhar Ahmed Ayaz came back on stage to officially open the church.

Tons of excitement!

Scientology Event this weekend

In LA this weekend is the IAS event and seminar.

The event is at the Shrine on Friday night. The seminar is on L. Ron Hubbard Way on Saturday.

The news from the UK is that the event totally smokes.

If you haven't confirmed attendance yet, call your org and let them know you're coming.

If you live in Clearwater, Florida the event is Friday night.

Everywhere else it's the next weekend after.

What a Day in London and What a Weekend! David Miscavige Dedicates New Church

A great Day for London

What a Day in London and What a Weekend! David Miscavige Dedicates New Church

"We are about to drive home the message 'This is Scientology' like you have never seen," said David Miscavige , chairman of the Church of Scientology (sic.) [David Miscavige is actually the Chairman of the Board of Religious Technology Center.]

So reports Robert Booth on Saturday in the Sunday Times - a story that got picked up internationally.

And Sunday's grand opening was everything Mr. Miscavige promised.

The Scientology Press Office announces the news as follows:

With thousands of Scientologists, local residents and officials in attendance, the new Church of Scientology of London opened its doors.

Mr. David Miscavige , Chairman of the Board of the Religious Technology Center and leader of the Scientology religion , stressed the historical importance of London. "This is the city L. Ron Hubbard himself [founder of the Scientology religion] selected as home to the first Scientology organization. This is also the city wherein he first defined the human spirit as an immortal being possessed of capabilities beyond anything predicted, and so arrived at the axiomatic truths on which the whole of Scientology is founded. Your early London organizations were also the original proving ground for the bulk of Mr. Hubbard's social betterment programs which are used to uplift neighborhoods just like this one."

A Scientologist Shares the Experience of Helping Another

After the Tsunami

"Today was quite amazing.

Every day for the last month has been amazing! I still take a step back and look at what the team and I are actually doing and achieving here in India. We are helping hundreds of people daily with what L. Ron Hubbard developed and seeing the results instantly, how fantastic is that! Any other selfhelp technology or any technology for that matter usually takes 'time' and you only see the results after a long sluggish process.

"Then, of course, there are the results that we don’t get to see when the person has gone home after receiving an assist that blew them away. They might then give their mother or sister an Assist which will then blow them away! I am completely dumbstruck and in awe of the effect we are creating here, it is almost so great that I find it hard to comprehend.

"I gave a lady a Nerve Assist today in the VM tent. She has had back pain for ten years. After the Assist she was beaming! She got up and said that she felt completely free and absolutely fantastic. She then went on to say that she felt this emotion and I could see her eyes welling up. She couldn’t thank me enough. I was over the moon. What an amazing pleasure and feeling to know that I have helped someone in ten minutes that has had pain for ten years!"

Jennifer Bird
Works in a gift shop in London

This photograph and success story were taken from the web site of Danish writer, photographer and Scientologist, Thorston Overgaard. The Site is called "After the Tsunami -- Something Can Be Done About It."

A November Italian wedding, is what the tabloids are announcing now. Wherever they get married I wish them both the best.

Aussie Scientologist Working to Nuke Drugs

Cyrus Brooks is the anti-drug Coordinator for Scientology in Sydney Australia, and he is quoted in the Navrarang Lifestyle magazine as follows:

"When youth know the effects of the drug aren't fully eliminated after a month or two, but go on for years, and it makes you mentally sluggish and hasy, they think twice before doing it. when they get the full data, they make better decisions. "
(that's Cyrus on the far right of the photo).

Brooks is referring to the discoveries L. Ron Hubbard made on the subject of drugs
and toxins lodging in the fatty tissues of the body.

There is more information on this in the book Clear Body Clear Mind.

Good Advice from the Scientology Women's Auxilliary

In a recent posting the Scientology Women's Auxilliary blog writes:


Are you sick of yelling at your kids? Or your partner? Do you really want to figure out how to communicate more effectively? I know whenever I see people blowing up at their kids or partners in public - I realize that they really are having a hard time of it. To learn more about how to fix this situation and communicate more effectively and happily - go to. You'll be glad you did.

Buffalo

We have a Scientology church in Buffalo, and I was thinking of my friends there earlier this week when I read about the terrific blizzard they had. So early in the season!

I know if sometimes snows in October, but nothing like this.

The whole city got shut down - very unusual for Buffalo where they are used to heavy snowfalls. But I'm sure this caught them unprepared.

Application of the Dynamics

There is a good application of "the Dynamics of Existence," a discovery of Scientology founder, L. Ron Hubbard, on the Earth Organization web site:

I'm getting very excited about the IAS event.

It takes place in England next weekend and a lot of my friends are going. In fact some of them have already left, as they are helping with the setups.

I am very eager to see the event. Wish I could go. Not for me this year, but I'll definitely be at the Shrine Auditorium in LA to see it a week later.

Aerospace bob has a great blog. It's so eclectic.

I learn a lot from his engineering and space exploration posts, and thoroughly enjoy how he incorporates Scientology principles into his life, as in this post.

Here's a very interesting web site about Scientology.

It's called Scientology FAQ, and it describes itself like this:

Whenever something is deemed "controversial" what that really means is there are a lot of unanswered questions about it. Scientology has become a hot topic for internet discussion in recent years, and gets referred to as "controversial" by many major media outlets.

What we (a small group of Scientologists) have done here is put together a searchable list of frequently asked questions (FAQ) from all over the internet. The purpose of this site is to give answers to people who have questions about Scientology, Scientologists, Dianetics, L. Ron Hubbard, etc.

London Org

I've heard the London Org (Church of Scientology of London) is having their grand opening right after the IAS event in England.

I would love to go.

I'm going to check it out and see if there's any way I can get over there. This will be one of those weekends that everyone will be talking about for the next 20 years (...do you remember the time that ....)

Religious Traditions

There is a series of lectures called the Pheonix Lectures (delivered in the city of Pheonix, vs. "phoenix rising from the ashes") in which LRH describes the religious history of Earth.

Listening to this I had so many realizations about Eastern and Western civilization.

Growing up in America I had a very insular and narrow view of religion.

These lectures absolutely broaden your perspective.

My Religion

Before I became a Scientologist I was a seeker, and before that I was what you would probably describe as a humanist.

Little did I know that when I was seeking for some kind of mystical revelation, all the while doubting that it would occur, I was about to find a religion which satisfied my intellectual bent and my spiritual needs.

Creation of Human Ability

I started reading an LRH book today called Creation of Human Ability, today.

L. Ron Hubbard wrote this book in 1953 or 1954 and I am just amazed at what I'm reading.

I've actually read this book before, about 30 years ago as a matter of fact, and I've read several chapters of it again since, but it has always been just about my favorite LRH book.

I HIGHLY recommend this one!

Scientology applied religious philosophy

I have had people ask me how come someone can be a Scientologist and still also be Jewish or Methodist or Muslim.

The reason is that Scientology is an applied religious philosophy as opposed to being a religious "practice."

Scientology is not a belief system, and doesn't interfere with one's beliefs. It is really completely up to you what you believe.

Scientology is a body of data and practical tools that you study and USE. You observe for yourself whether or a datum in Scientology is true, and if it is, fine. If not, that's fine too.

There is an article by L. Ron Hubbard that sums this up perfectly. It is called Personal Integrity

Scientology Axioms

The Scientology Axioms are a brilliant analysis of the relationship between the spiritual and the material.

From it derive every other aspect of Scientology applied religious philosophy.

It's not a "light" read, but it is worth any effort you put in to understanding them, because with such an understanding you can handle so much of life that appeared mysterious before.

I recommend the book Scientology: the Fundamentals of Thought to anyone interested in learning about the basic beliefs of Scientology, and these Axioms are included as one of the appendix.

The Scientology Axioms are also online as part of Scientlogy: Theology and Practice of a Contemporary Religion.

The Creed of the Church of Scientology was written by L. Ron Hubbard shortly after the Church was formed in Los Angeles on February 18, 1954.

The first line of the creed is:

We of the Church believe:

That all men of whatever race, color, or creed were created with equal rights;

The reason so many Scientologists are involved in human rights activities is that it is the most basic belief of Scientologists that human rights must be made a fact.

The Aims of Scientology

A civilization without insanity,
without criminals and without war,
where the able can prosper
and honest beings can have rights,
and where man is free to rise to greater heights,
are the aims of Scientology.

The Components of Understanding

There is a chapter in the Scientology Handbook on "The ARC Triangle"


The components of understanding are Affinity, Reality and Communication. Affinity is the degree of liking or affection. Reality is agreement, or that which appears to be, and communication is the interchange of ideas or objects. Together these form an interrelated triangle.

The information in this chapter is simple and easy to learn, but is so powerful it can revive any relationship, no matter how sour it has become.

The Scientology religion has, as one of its most basic principles, the respect of the religious beliefs of others.


Here is a statement form one of the Church's web sites on the subject:

We live in an age when the fear of terrorism and crime mandates restrictions on personal freedom to such an extent that it threatens to strangle the very life of the democracy it seeks to protect. It is a balancing act of public and private interests, involving great risk for the body politic and its citizenry.

For democracy to function legitimately, the governed must have the ability to gather accurate and timely information about the internal workings of their nation, and the reasons behind governmental action. History is scarred with the abuses that have transpired behind the veil of secrecy — and the first step toward totalitarianism and an oppressive police state usually includes the eradication of the means to scrutinise the conduct of officials.

Scientology Web Site

One of my favorite Scientology web sites is the Scientology News Site.

It was recently redesigned and it has lots of great news.

I love to keep up with what's happening with Scientology churches and Scientologists all over the world, and this helps me do so.

Scientology - a Very Personal Religion

When I was growing up I didn't know what my religion was.

I asked my older sister (who always knew everything back then) and she told me I was an agnostic, because I was seeking truth and doubting what I'd been told.

Then I found Scientology, many years ago now, and from the first book I read I realized I had found something that didn't require belief. You looked at it and it was either true for you or not. You didn't have to "believe" anything.

But I also found it very interesting that everything I checked out -- checked out.

On the one hand here was something that let me discover my own truth, by own universe; it allowed me to really understand myself and what I had experienced -- and not just this lifetime either.

Yet on the other hand it was incredibly practical. L. Ron Hubbard had discovered truths that are as invariable as physics.

Then about 10 years ago, when David Miscavige announced the Golden Age of Tech (a whole program of making it possible for anyone to learn Scientology technology and increase their ability to apply it with ease and precision) everything went up a whole level. I found my ability to understand Scientology principles increased immeasurably, and the personal gains I experienced from the application of Scientology did too.

It's actually a great time to learn about Scientology.

Scientology in Poland

I was surprised to see that there was an L. Ron Hubbard Exhibition in Warsaw.

It's funny that I know so little about Poland. I think my interest in the country was a bit damped by the tasteless Polish jokes I heard (and told) as a teenager.

Scientology tent will be at the Utah State Fair

The Deseret News says:

A Scientology Continental Volunteer Ministers Cavalcade tent will be at the Utah State Fair, Thursday through Sept. 17.

The Scientology Volunteer Ministers are known for their responses to disasters throughout the world, from ground zero to monthslong relief efforts in the Banda Aceh tsunami aftermath. The cavalcade is a traveling exhibit that will introduce visitors to Scientology principles.

People interested in the Volunteer Minister program can call 801-485-9992.

If you're in the area and you've been thinking of finding out about Scientology, or if you would just like some help sorting out something in your life, go visit the tent.

In honor of the anniversary of 911, please permit me to pay tribute to all of the Volunteer Ministers and everyone else who gave of themselves in the weeks, months and years after 911. We will never forget.

This is a photo of the head of the Scientology Disaster Relief Team in Java, Indonesia giving a seminar on basic Scientology principles. His beautiful interpreter is an Indonesian woman who recently became a Scientology Volunteer Minister herself.

The work the disaster relief team is doing in Indonesia is incredible. When you consider how much the people of this country have had to live through in the past 2 years, first with the tsunami, then the two earthquakes over the past few months, it is really amazing how reziliant they are. There is so much interest in Scientology technology to address the mental and spiritual effects of these calamities, and it I am so glad there is a team of VMs there, helpiing the people of the area.

A couple of years ago, Mr. David Miscavige gave a speech in which he described the work of the Scientology Volunteer Ministers. What he described was pretty impressive at that time but all the more so today with so many VMs active in disasters over the past two years.

There is news updated daily on the Scientology Press Office site about the Scientology Volunteer Ministers.

Thanks, Jen, for reminding me. I'm certainly going!

Auditors Day

Next weekend Scientology churches celebrate auditors day.

Auditors are Scientology counselors. In the Scientology glossary it is defined as follows:

"a person trained and qualified in applying Dianetics and/or Scientology processes and procedures to individuals for their betterment; called an auditor because auditor means one who listens."

Auditors don't tell you what you should think about your reactions or emotions or things that have happened to you. Rather then direct you to find out for yourself.

Scientology Press Office

There's a beautiful new look to the Scientology Press Office at www.scientologytoday.org.

At its core, the Church of Scientology’s drug prevention campaign is a grass-roots movement made up of people-Scientologists and non—Scientologists alike—who are united in the commitment to take action to combat drug abuse through effective education. After all—while we can keep fighting a war on drugs, it’s evident that unless we address the demand, that war will be lost.

Something can be done about drug abuse. And the component that makes it all possible is, invariably, the dedicated work of individuals—of people.

These beautiful children learned about human rights from the Youth for Human Rights World Tour 2006 in New Zealand.The Church of Scientology International produced the educational properties Youth for Human Rights Interternational is promoting to get human rights education included in all schools.

In Boston, Volunteer Ministers established the Dorchester Scientology Ministry. This ministry has become an integral part of the neighborhood, working with law enforcement and other religious leaders to help people where ever and when ever needed. On May 23, the Boston police launched "gun buy back program" and we were asked to sponsor this program. The purpose is to get guns off the street to reduce crime. The police designated (apart from police stations) only 8 locations in the city for people to drop off their guns and one was the Dorchester VM Ministry.

This shows the degree to which the ministry has become part of the community and is working with law enforcement and religious leaders most of the non-police locations were churches to end the violence in the area.

As we remember the victims of Hurricane Katrina, let us also remember those who gave of themselves to help the survivors. Nearly 1,000 Volunteer Ministers aided survivors of hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Wilma, providing, among other things, food and water. Without them, the disaster would have been much, much worse.

I have been a Scientologist for a good many years. I have watched more and more churches open, I have seen an incredible rate of expansion occurring and I know that this is because the philosophy of L. Ron Hubbard helps people.

It is something people can use in their everyday lives; it can help them with their kids, their jobs, their lives.

For more about tools that you can use yourself, see the Scientology Handbook website and go ahead and use it.

Knowing How to Know

Did you know that Scientology means "Knowing how to know?"

There's a terrific book on the subject that really explains why name was chosen and why Mr. Hubbard emphasized learning as the keynote to spiritual progress. The name of the book is Scientology: The Fundamentals of Thought.

Last week it was the annual Gala at the Church of Scientology International in Hollywood, this is featured on the Celebrity Centre website, which is one of my favorites. It was recently redesigned and has a beautiful photo of Kelly Preston and her daughter.

It also has an article about the Dianetics NASCAR team.


There are many other interesting articles on this website, including what other celebrities are doing and how they are finding Scientology principals help them with their careers.

Scientology Books

I've been re-reading some of the books I read when I first got into Scientology. Each one I read I go "that's my favorite" until I read the next.

I remember a philosophy class I took in high school. I was pretty proud to be in the class to begin with - an honors class. But I was so disappointed with the philosophy I read. I was fully expecting to find answers that made sense to me. Instead what I read was very esoteric and had no application to my life.

When I found out about Scientology I realized that was what I always expected philosophy to be like, because it all makes sense and whenever I tried it out it worked for me. And that's one of the most basic principles of Scientology - if it's true for YOU it's true.

Helping Children

I read on the Scientology Newsroom tonight about the Youth for Human Rights World Tour in the Philippines.

I was a bit surprised to read: "Human rights is a vital issue in the Philippines where millions of people live in urban slums lacking sanitation and water, many fall victim to sexual trafficking and poverty all too often forces children into the job market."

I hadn't realized that kids are in such danger in the Philippines. Protecting children from these kinds of abuses is vital and I'm very glad this education campaign is going in, in this country.

I thought this posting by VM was so interesting. I guess most people would call her nosey. And I guess she is. But what's politely walking by when you see someone destroying something that's probably really important to him compared to being considered meddlesome, perhaps, but saving someone's marriage?

What do you think?

Honesty and Success in Marriage

A few years ago I was flying out of Las Vegas on a business trip. Standing on line waiting to board the plane I heard a guy talking to he secretary over his cell phone. He was describing how he and his buddy called in sick that day and flew to Las Vegas to have some fun. He stood up his client, telling him he had a flat tire (the guy was an insurance salesman, I think), and he blew $1000 bucks gambling. He was telling his secretary what to say if his wife called and asked where he'd been.

My "crystal ball" told me that a year or two down the line there would be no wife. Because living like this with this level of dishonesty will destroy a relationship.

So being a Scientology Volunteer Minister, I decided to do something about this, and I told him I'd overheard what he said. I asked him if his marriage was important to him -- did he want to stay married or didn't it matter to him. He was surprised that I'd ask him this, but he told me that yes, he really loved his wife.

I shared with him my experience patching up wrecked marriages that started on the downward road with just this kind of "minor" (to him) dishonesty.

I don't know if he took my advice or got his act together. I hope he did. I think there are far too many broken homes that could easily be handled with a bit of Scientology technology.

The chapter on "Marriage" in the Scientology handbook is well worth reading. An excerpt from this is online the Scientology handbook site.

David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board of Religious Technology Center refers to the messes we make of our lives in a speech her gave a couple of years that is referred to as "This is Scientology." Mr. Miscavige calls this a "Code Orange."

Mr. Miscavige says, "What about the terror alerts that are a part of everyday existence? The upsets at home that are so common it’s considered part of the daily grind called life? That’s a Code Orange taking place in millions of households every day. Or what about raising a child today? If it’s not the drugs, then it’s the all too common worry that they’ll actually get an education. That’s the real terror alert and it’s at Code Red."

Scientology churches, like the Church of Scientology of New York or the Church of Scientology of San Francisco (or any other church, really) are open seven days a week and are there to help the community with just this kind of problem (or anything else a person may need help sorting out). If you need help, take advantage of the offer.

Church of Scientology of San Francisco

San Francisco is a great town, and the Scientology church in that city has recently moved to new quarters and is expanding faster than at any time in its history.

Anyone interested in finding out more about the Scientology religion take the time to go in and check it out. The staff are really friendly and helpful, they have an excellent exhibit on the ground floor that explains what Scientology is, and they have many introductory Scientology and Dianetics services.

Two years ago Mr. David Miscavige was the keynote speaker at the grand opening, as he has been at a number of other such events - one example was at the Church of Scientology of Johannesburg.

Another grand opening was in New York.

New Scientology Missions

At a recent event aboard the Freewinds motor vessel, David Miscavige announced that 43 new Scientology Missions had opened their doors so far this year. Mr. Miscavige then went on to show photos and video footage of the grand openings of missions from Salt Lake City to Siberia and from South Africa to the Czech Republic.


Here's a photo of one of the recent grand openings. The Church of Scientology Mission of Montpellier in France (I found this on the web site of the Church of Scientology of Tampa)

This is a team of teachers who were trained in providing trauma relief by the Scientology Disaster Relief Team in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.

The volunteers came from the Medan Scientology Disaster Relief Center (which was established following the Dec. 2004 tsunami) and Scientologists from Australia, but volunteers from as far away as Sweden and the US joined them to help after the Java earthquake.

Makes me very proud to be a member of the Scientology religion.

Fourth Generation Scientologist

A friend of mine just became a grandma and her tiny little granddaughter is a 4th generation Scientologist. The great grandmother was a founding Scientologist in Australia. My friend, who is just in her mid-40s was generation 2, her son, just turned 20, is generation 3 and the beautiful little baby is gen 4.

Not bad for a religion that only recently passed the 50-year mark!

I don't know how well known it is, but the Churches of Scientology around the world support a major anti-drug campaign. They recently updated their website showing new booklets that were produced for drug education and prevention purposes.

Drugs are a very serious problem the world over and I think just about everyone knows someone who's life has been affected by drugs, be it street drugs or prescription drugs.

I don't know about you, but I would prefer to be informed and the more people who are, the better.

Here are some of the new booklets:




These new booklets were released aboard the "Freewinds" at an event hosted by Mr. David Miscavige who spearheads many of the community betterment programs supported by the Church.

He has spoken about societal problems and solutions for many years, giving the successes in many fields. Some of the places you can see these are here:

This is Scientology speech

Tribute to L. Ron Hubbard

Grand Opening of tne Church of Scientology of New York

See here for more information about David Miscavige

Three weeks till the annual Celebrity Centre Gala.

I am really looking forward to attend.

The ambiance, food, company, entertainment are all spectacular, but what I think I like best is it's right on the pulse of what is happening in the "Scientology world" with people networking and making decisions about what they will do to bring Scientology to more and more people in the coming year.

Here's a photo I found on the Scientology Effective Solutions web site of a rally in Padua where the Youth for Human Rights International 2006 World Tour premiered one of their new human rights public service announcements.

One of the things that attracted me to the Scientology religion to begin with was the orientation to human rights. I have heard many people "talk the talk" - don't discriminate, all people should be treated equally - but then when it came to putting it into practice in personal relationships they fell so short of the mark.

But as a Scientologist when you realize you are a spirit and a body is something you HAVE not something you ARE it puts a whole new dimension on things. As Lauren Mara says on her Scientology and Human Rights web site: "Scientologists know that man is a spiritual being -- an immortal spirit temporarily inhabiting a body. When one has understanding and certainty on this fact, the idea of discrimination based on body type becomes as ridiculous as discriminating against someone based on the brand of automobile they drive."

Digging Scientology

The Scientology News Room now displays links so you can "Digg this article" or click on a link to "del.icio.us" to vote for your favorite stories.

Check out one of my favorites - this story on the Scientology Anti-Drug Campaign, called "Church of Scientology International Unleashes Global Assault on Drug Abuse"

Maiden Voyage Event Number 1

Living in LA I get to see the International events a week ahead of people who live in orgs in outlying areas.

Last Saturday was the first of the Maiden Voyage events for this year.

It smoked.

David Miscavige gave an overview of what Scientologists have been doing to help society and it was pretty impressive.

He gave news about the Scientology Volunteer Ministers and I loved hearing it.

The event will be shown at other Scientology churches this coming weekend.

Scientology Volunteer Ministers

According to the David Miscavige blog


"At the grand opening of one of the newly renovated Scientology churches, as a guest of honor, Mr. David Miscavige spoke of the activities of the Scientology 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 most recent example of this is the work Scientologists are doing to help the victims of last month's Java earthquake.

Scientology churches around the world each have their own corps of Scientology Volunteer Ministers.

Human Rights Activists at the Church of Scientology of Tampa

I was looking through the web site of the Church of Scientology of Tampa and found this piece on the formation of a Youth for Human Rights International group at the church there.

I was particularly impressed that where most teens I know are pretty self-absorbed worrying about their social life or at best their academic acheivment, these youth are actually aware of and working to put an end to human rights abuses.

Here's what the article says:

"Youth for Human Rights International Club (YHRI) of Tampa Bay, an organization that teaches children around the globe the importance of human rights, did a presentation on this subject to the upper classes of the Clearwater Academy in Clearwater. The YHRI Club of Tampa Bay is comprised of 17-year-old Eagle Scout, Nick Lister, their spokesman and teens Travis Weber, Simone Indianer, Melissa Ryan and Ryan Smith.

"Nick said, 'I decided to start a chapter in the Tampa Bay area because I want to do something that will help young people like me learn the value of promoting and standing up for human rights. Many children are confronted daily by poverty, illiteracy and drug abuse. Millions are the target of intolerance. The place to start teaching respect for the rights of others is with young people.'"

I've found the Scientology religion to be very much oriented toward promoting and working to protect and guarantee human rights.

For example, the Creed of the Church of Scientology begins with the following statement:

We of the Church believe:

That all men of whatever race, color or creed were created with equal rights.

Scientologists have been very active in the anti-drug war, educating kids through various community programs, helping addicts get through the trauma, doing all sorts of drug prevention activities.

There is a website called the drug salvage site. This gives a lot of information to both kids, teenagers and parents.

Drugs are a problem and I know from working in this area that there are solutions.

One doesn't have to be involved in the Scientology religion to know that its important to let kids know about the dangers and get them turned off drugs from an early age. This way if they have certainty about it, they won't be pressured so easily.

I think anyone, whatever their race, color or creed should get involved with pushing the drug-free message.

More information about the problem see the David Miscavige speech, "This is Scientology."

Church of Scientology of Buffalo

For some reason I'm always very interested in the Church of Scientology of Buffalo and what is happening with the Scientology Church in that city.

As a city, Buffalo hit a long decline in the 80's and 90's and the Church is working with local groups to help revitilize the city.

Here's a story about a "Jazz Night" they held, to pull together people interested in working with them to create a "Brighter Future for Buffalo."

Scientology Summer of Events

Over the past few years it has become a tradition to have a series of events on four subsequent weekends during the summer.

These are recorded on the Freewinds, a religious retreat that travels through the Carribean.

In 1988 the Maiden Voyage of the Freewinds was held. She was christened on June 6th, and each year Scientologists from around the world gather at the ship to review the progress that has been made in the expansion of the Scientology religion and its humanitarian activities.

David Miscavige is usually the master of ceremonies for each of these events. Mr. Miscavige's presentations are the highlight of the events for me.

Here's a little ad for this year's events. The date when the event will be held at each church can be found on the individual church web sites. You can locate Scientology churches at www.churchofscientology.com

Here's a follow up on the story about Priscilla Presley

6/04/06
Permalink 21:00:34, Categories: Celebrity News
Priscilla Presley Uses Scientology To Reach Out To Drug Addicts

Priscilla PresleyPriscilla Presley shared the pain of her former husband Elvis Presley's drug problems during the opening of a rehabilitation centre yesterday.

The 61-year-old spoke at the Michigan launch of a centre inspired by the teachings of Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard. Presley is a Scientologist.

She insisted her own encounters with drug addictions made her delighted to be able to help others, saying, "We have become a drug culture and we need to do something about it. We all know someone who struggles with the problems of alcohol or substance abuse."

In an earlier statement Presley explained the so-called Narconon program is "capable of eliminating the very cravings that drive addicts in recovery back to drugs".

Here's a follow up on the story about Priscilla Presley

6/04/06
Permalink 21:00:34, Categories: Celebrity News
Priscilla Presley Uses Scientology To Reach Out To Drug Addicts

Priscilla PresleyPriscilla Presley shared the pain of her former husband Elvis Presley's drug problems during the opening of a rehabilitation centre yesterday.

The 61-year-old spoke at the Michigan launch of a centre inspired by the teachings of Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard. Presley is a Scientologist.

She insisted her own encounters with drug addictions made her delighted to be able to help others, saying, "We have become a drug culture and we need to do something about it. We all know someone who struggles with the problems of alcohol or substance abuse."

In an earlier statement Presley explained the so-called Narconon program is "capable of eliminating the very cravings that drive addicts in recovery back to drugs".

Priscilla in Australia

I was reading one of my favorite blogs today to see if there was any Scientology religion news and found something I didn't expect -- Priscilla Presley was in Australia. I only found out as she was leaving to go back to the States to attend the dedication of a new Narconon center in Michigan.

In the course of this I also found a new Scientology blog I really like. It's the Create Expressions blog, and reading through that I was reminded of how excited Mr. David Miscavige was to announce that Narconon Arrowhead is working on opening a center where they can train many more people to open new Narconons.

Drugs is such a problem all over the world, and Mr. Miscavige made the point that training those who will open new centers, Narconon can increase its capability to help by an enormous amount.

Anniversary of the Maiden Voyage of the Freewinds

We are approaching the anniversary of the launch of the Freewinds Motor Vessel.

It's known as "June 6th" or "the Maiden Voyage" to most of my friends, and each year there is an anniversary cruise aboard the ship.

Each night there is an event and these are all filmed and shown throughout the summer at Scientology churches and missions -- one event each week on a Saturday or Sunday night, depending on what works out best for the members of that church.

Each night, David Miscavige is the MC, and for some of them he does the entire presentation.

Everyone I've spoken to who has spent time aboard the Freewinds has told me it is the most special place in the world - totally safe, vibrant, friendly, rejuvenating.

I would love to go to the Maiden Voyage event aboard the Freewinds, but going to the events with the opportunity of hearing the latest news from Mr. Miscavige is a complete treat in itself.

Church of Scientology Celebrity Center

Since we are talking about the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre I want to let you know that I took a great course on ART which is offered at the Center.

I decided to check it out when I heard that L. Ron Hubbard was himself an artist--one of the most famous and widely read writers of the Pulp Fiction era. A friend of mine gave me some of his fiction and I was impressed by his ability to tell a story! Wow~ Be prepared for anything to happen! He is a master at characterization and I don't think I have ever read ANY author who could make the characters in their stories live and breath like Mr Hubbard could. I am now rereading the epic Mission Earth decology and it is making me lose a lot of sleep because I can't put it down some nights.

What I didn't know until I visited the LRH Life Exhibition in Hollywood was that Mr Hubbard also wrote poetry, music and screenplays. So when my friend told me he also had written about the subject of Art I figured he must know something about it and I decided to take the course.
I'd always thought that when it came to Art that you either had the knack for it or you didn't, and I was one of the people who didn't. So I was very surprised to find laws and tenets pertaining to Art that could be mastered by anyone, even me. You should check it out as it handles a lot of false ideas that float around on the subject particularly if like me you live in Hollywood. If you are not adventurous enough to take the course there is a book that you can read. Check it out on the Celebrity Centre site.

Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre

I've heard the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre described as an oasis of sanity. In Hollywood that is an incredible thing to find.

The whole environment of Celebrity Centre reflects its commitment to rehabilitating the artist. It is aesthetic, warm and so friendly.

Here's a little more about Celebrity Centre from their own web site:

Scientology exists to provide help -- help for all people -- at every strata of life, of every disability or ability and across all ethnic and religious boundaries.

Borne out of this desire to help are the many social betterment activities Scientology supports. From our education programs, providing real answers to declining literacy levels, to our solutions for criminal reform and drug-rehabilitation — everything we do in Scientology is in the name of help.

At the 35th anniversary of the founding of Celebrity Center, Mr. David Miscavige gave a speech which is now called "This is Scientology." It's available on DVD and a transcript is also online.

One thing Mr. Miscavige said in this speech really stuck me.

"Today we are at a watershed in history. At stake is whether the ideals we cherish will survive or some new abhorrent set of values win the day. And if that decline has been evident through the past half century, it continues unabated into this new one."

I believe this is true. I think we all need to work to make the future the bright, idealistic one he speaks of.

Life Improvement Center for the Church of Scientology of Milano

Marking its 25th year in the city, the Church of Scientology of Milano (Milan) is expanding its service to the city with the grand opening of a Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center right in the heart of one of the most important financial and business centers of Northern Italy and all of Europe.

The event included a ribbon cutting ceremony and tours through the beautiful new center that was established to provide Scientology lectures, films, courses and one-on-one help to the community.

Scientology Celebrity Centre

Many of my friends have asked me what Scientology Celebrity Centre is, and why Scientology has a Celebrity Centre.

This statement of the purpose of this church comes from the Celebrity Centre web site:

"Scientology exists to provide help -- help for all people -- at every strata of life, of every disability or ability and across all ethnic and religious boundaries.

"Borne out of this desire to help are the many social betterment activities Scientology supports. From our education programs, providing real answers to declining literacy levels, to our solutions for criminal reform and drug-rehabilitation -- everything we do in Scientology is in the name of help.

"Thus, while we continue our work to bring real solutions to those areas of society most in need, we also realize that we must not forget those individuals upon whom society depends the most."

Did you know that per a survey done on Human Rights, something like 92 percent of the people surveyed did not know what they are?

Kind of scary when you consider that when people don't know what their rights are, it makes it easier for someone to take them away.

I found a great site where you can find out all about the Universal Declaration of human rights and even view a video PSAs (public service announcement) which illustrates them, the Youth for Human Rights International web site. Check it out.

Another site that covers human rights issues is Freedom Magazine. It is published by the Church of Scientology International, and true to the Scientology creed, which emphasizes human rights as a significant part of the beliefs of the Scientology religion, Freedom Magazine often investigates those areas which infringe on the rights of individuals.

Life is lived by a lot of people, and in order to live a happy life, you've got to be able to get along with them.

A big part of good relationships is knowing who to trust, and what to expect of the individuals you interact with in your daily life. Choosing the right employees, friends, spouse can make the crucial difference between a happy life and a stressful one.

And then, there is you. How much of a friend are you to others? To yourself?

L. Ron Hubbard developed a tool in Scientology which anyone can use which answers these questions. It is called the emotional Tone Scale, and contains vital data on how people react and what to expect of them, at different emotional positions on this scale.

There is a site, http://testing.dianetics.org/,which tells you all about it, including a test you can take to measure your own position on the scale. You can also see the full scale on the site and the predictions of human behavior at each point of it. It also tells you how to change your position on the scale and move up. This is some of the most practical and useful data you will ever find on getting along better with others. Visit the Dianetics testing site and see for yourself.

Most people want to be happier in life. Here is a quote I found recently from L. Ron Hubbard, which works!

"Two rules for happy living:
1. Be willing to experience anything.
2. Cause only those things which others are able to experience easily."
L. Ron Hubbard, from the book A New Slant on Life

A 21st Century Religion

It doesn't seem that long ago that I was thinking about what the 21st Century would be like. We were wondering if Y2K was going to stop the civilization when all the computers were expected to crash (not).

I sat enthralled at the Church of Scientology International New Years Event in Los Angeles while Mr. David Miscavige ran through the most important milestones in the history of our religion for the past 50 years.

We certainly never anticipated 9/11 and the various repercussions that came forward from that terrible tragedy.

The past six years has seen an incredible expansion for the Scientology religion, and I am sure that the first ten years of this decade and century will mark a real turning point as more and more people come to realize the value of Scientology technology has in their lives.

The Church of Scientology International's investigatory magazine as well as providing in depth interviews and reporting on controversial issues, has covered many events throughout the years. Definitely worth checking out. Here is one such event, hosted by Mr. David Miscavige.

Scientology Silent Birth: 'It's A Natural Thing'

Nice story on Beliefnet, featuring an interview with the President of the Church of Scientology of New York on the subject of Silent Birth.

Church of Scientology of San Diego

One of my favorite cities in the US is San Diego. It has the great climate of Southern California without the some of the drawbacks of LA. It's a beautiful city, had a very diverse cultural mix, is close to the border of Mexico and lots of cultural and entertainment attractions.

The Church of Scientology of San Diego has a wonderful staff, very helpful and competent and the church is expanding so much they are planning to move to bigger quarters.

They have a really nice new web site too.

There is so much interest in Scientology these days and I would recommend that anyone living in San Diego County visit the Church and find out more about their programs and services.

Here's their contact information:

Church of Scientology
of San Diego
1330 Fourth Avenue
San Diego, CA 92101

Phone/Fax: (619) 239-2091
sandiego@scientology.net

More on Scientology Silent Birth

Great Story today in the Orange Country Register about Scientologists and their adherence to basic Dianetics principles regarding birth.

There's been lots of hype on the subject. It's good to see some factual stories surfacing now.

Of course the BEST way to understand "silent birth" is to read Dianetics: the Modern Science of Mental Health.

Great Story about Tom Cruise and Scientology Silent Birth

by SANDY COHEN AP Entertainment Writer

LOS ANGELES Apr 12, 2006 (AP) Tom Cruise has been practically shouting from the rooftops about his love for his pregnant fiancee, Katie Holmes. But when their much-anticipated baby is born, the superstar dad probably won't say a word.

Cruise, a longtime Scientologist who introduced Holmes to the faith, is likely to follow Scientology's practice of quiet birth. Followers believe the absence of talk and other noise in the delivery room is more healthful for mother and baby.

No one's saying publicly where baby Cruise will enter the world, but if it is at the actor's Beverly Hills home then noise control might prove a challenge. Buzzing paparazzi are already camped aside the property.

With the little one expected soon, tabloids and gossip Web sites have been rife with chatter about silent birth, spawning much speculation about what it is and isn't.

Some are sure it means the mother can't make a peep during childbirth forget the popular image of a chaotic hospital-room scene with a laboring woman spewing invectives. Others have claimed silence must be maintained for a full week after the baby is born and that Scientology opposes medical exams for newborns.

According to the tenets of Scientology, known as Dianetics, words - even loving ones - spoken during birth and other painful times are recorded by the "reactive mind," or subconscious. Those memories, adherents feel, can eventually trigger problems for mother and child.

What the doctrine doesn't say is that labouring moms can't make some noise during delivery.

"We're not going for absolute silence," said self-professed "Scientology mom" Michelle Seward. "If a sound is made, that's OK."

After years studying the faith, established in 1950 by fiction writer L. Ron Hubbard, Seward went the silent route for the birth of her son, Sage, five years ago.>> more

New Church of Scientology Mission in Sturovo, Slovakia

Staff of the new Church of Scientology Mission of Štúrovo, the 14th Mission in the Country of Slovakia.

It's an interesting point that of the greatest considered philosophers of all time, who influenced the thought and condition of man, such as Plato, Socrates Lucretious and Voltaire, actually had far less knowledge and research into the Human Condition than L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of the Scientology religion.

Mr. Hubbard personally studied more than 20 twenty primitive races, traveling all corners of the globe, sought out the human condition and discovered through his research the situations and solutions to life. He actually had more information and data than any philosopher of his time and of those before him, simply because his early writings took him into many aspects of man and his condition. This was done over the period of twenty years prior to his writing of Dianetics, and then continued for an additional 40 years up to his passing in the late 80's.

With backgrounds in nuclear physics and engineering, he combined these skills to not only discover the secrets of man, but then demonstrate consistently their application and workabiliy.

NEW DEATH MUSEUM EXPOSES HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS

The Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR), the premier watchdog group on psychiatric violations and human rights, recently opened their new museum, Psychiatry: An Industry of Death. See www.cchr.com for details and the museum itself for the truth about psychiatry, and what you can do to stop psychiatric abuses.

This is Scientology

The RTC web site has an excellent description of the Scientology religion. It is an excerpt of a speech given in the summer of 2004 by Mr. David Miscavige.