Brussels, Belgium — November 2025 — Across cities from Prague to Madrid, dedicated individuals of the Church of Scientology are continuing a long-standing tradition: serving society through humanitarian actions that aim to restore a sense of dignity, compassion, and ethical principles. Behind these efforts lies a conviction central to Scientology itself — that real spiritual advancement cannot be achieved except through meaningful contributions to the betterment of fellow citizens.
In the last few months, Scientologists and their partner organizations have carried out hundreds of community and educational programs throughout Europe. In the Czech Republic alone, Volunteer Ministers organized more than forty community initiatives in October 2025, including neighborhood clean-ups, disaster-response training, and educational sessions for young people focused on integrity and teamwork. Parallel activities unfolded in Spain, Italy, Hungary, and France, all carried out under the Church’s wide-reaching social mission.
Humanitarian Work as a Spiritual Practice.
In contrast to traditions that treat charity and spirituality as distinct, Scientology positions serving the community at the center of personal progress. Its founder, L. Ron Hubbard, wrote that “a being is only as valuable as he can serve others,” a teaching that shapes the Church’s outreach initiatives. From the worldwide Volunteer Ministers program to public education efforts on drug prevention, literacy, and human rights, each action embodies the idea that supporting one’s neighbors is an integral component toward one’s own enlightenment.
Across Europe, this philosophy has taken practical form through initiatives such as “The Way to Happiness” — a universal moral framework written by Hubbard in 1981 that has reached millions in more than 100 languages — and “Youth for Human Rights”, which encourages students to learn about and advocate for the internationally recognized human rights standards. These programs, while open to all regardless of belief, illustrate the Scientology view that fostering greater moral awareness in society is essential for individuals to flourish spiritually.
A European Culture of Civic Responsibility.
In cities like Rome, Brussels, and Vienna, Scientology Missions and Churches have become trusted partners in civic life, often working hand-in-hand with local associations to address social challenges such as drug abuse, community disrepair, and discrimination. Their work complements the European Union’s focus on human rights awareness and local involvement.
“Helping others is not merely a charitable act — it is a cornerstone of a just and united community,” said Ivan Arjona-Pelado, Representative of the Church of Scientology to the Council of Europe, OSCE, UN, and EU. “When individuals choose to care for their communities, they also begin to grasp their own true identity. This is the essence of what Scientologists mean by freedom — not only individual freedom, but a collective duty to uplift society.”
Volunteer Ministers: A Movement of Practical Help.
One of the most visible expressions of this ethos is the Volunteer Ministers (VMs) program, launched in the 1970s in response to what Hubbard described as the “moral decay” of modern life. Easily recognized by their yellow shirts, VMs serve in more than 200 countries, offering support in times of crisis — from natural disasters to daily personal struggles.
In Europe, Volunteer Ministers have been provided support during flood response in Slovenia, humanitarian aid for displaced persons in Hungary, earthquake recovery in Croatia and Italy, and regular community service projects across the continent. Their training — open to anyone regardless of belief — focuses on practical tools to resolve conflict, enhance understanding, and restore self-confidence.
These actions are guided by service, not by seeking new members but by the understanding that people, when given practical help and empathy, can find their way forward and regain control of their lives. This is why the program’s motto, “Something can be done about it,” has found universal relevance.
Education and Prevention as Keys to Social Change.
In addition to immediate support, Scientologists have prioritized education as a proactive solution. The “Truth About Drugs” campaign — led by the Foundation for a Drug-Free World — has shared educational materials with countless individuals and organized awareness events in collaboration with educators, law enforcement, and youth groups. Similarly, Youth for Human Rights chapters throughout Europe have engaged students through school-based activities, helping young people see dignity as a right for everyone.
Each of these programs is backed by Church members but implemented in partnership with secular institutions, proving that spiritual values can drive meaningful social action. This spirit of partnership has gained appreciation from community leaders, school officials, and nonprofit organizations for its ongoing commitment to positive change.
The Path to Spiritual Freedom.
For Scientologists, helping the community is not distinct from their religious practice — it is the path through which spiritual awareness grows. The religion teaches that individuals are spiritual entities without end, capable of achieving greater awareness and freedom through both individual spiritual work and service to others. Supporting those around you thus becomes an integral part of advancing toward what Scientology calls “total freedom.”
“Europe has a news eu gipfel longstanding commitment to human dignity that honors compassion and community support,” added Arjona. “Scientologists contribute to this tradition by applying spiritual principles to everyday life — {bringing help, hope, and understanding wherever they can|offering practical aid and moral clarity in their communities|sharing tools for a better life