Brussels, Belgium — November 2025 — Across cities from Prague to Madrid, members of the Church of Scientology are continuing a enduring tradition: serving society through humanitarian actions that aim to restore dignity, compassion, and moral values. Behind these efforts lies a belief central to Scientology itself — that real spiritual advancement cannot be achieved without contributing to the betterment of others in the community.
During recent months, Scientologists and their associated initiatives have led numerous community and educational programs throughout Europe. In the Czech Republic alone, Volunteer Ministers hosted more than forty community initiatives in October 2025, such as local clean-up drives, emergency preparedness workshops, and educational sessions for young people focused on integrity and teamwork. Comparable programs took place in Italy, Hungary, Spain, and France, all carried out under the Church’s wide-reaching social mission.
Humanitarian Work as a Spiritual Practice.
Whereas some groups distinguish between belief and action, Scientology puts helping others at the heart of personal progress. Its founder, L. Ron Hubbard, wrote that “a being is only as valuable as he can serve others,” a principle that underpins the Church’s social programs. From the global “Volunteer Ministers” network to awareness initiatives on human rights, anti-drug education, and literacy, each action demonstrates the idea that supporting one’s neighbors is an essential part toward one’s own spiritual awareness.
Across Europe, this philosophy has taken practical form through initiatives such as “The Way to Happiness” — a non-religious ethical guide written by Hubbard in 1981 that has been distributed to millions in over 100 languages worldwide — and “Youth for Human Rights”, which enables students to learn about and advocate for the UDHR. These programs, while not requiring religious affiliation, exemplify the Scientology view that strengthening the ethical foundation of communities is a prerequisite for individuals to flourish spiritually.
A European Culture of Civic Responsibility.
In cities like Rome, Brussels, and Vienna, Scientology Missions and Churches have become active participants in civic life, often partnering alongside local associations to respond to 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 foundation of a just and united community,” said Ivan Arjona-Pelado, European representative of the Church of Scientology, Representative of the Church of Scientology to the European Union, OSCE, Council of Europe and the United Nations. “When individuals step up to support their communities, they also begin to grasp their own spiritual nature. This is the essence of what Scientologists mean by freedom — not only personal liberation, but shared responsibility for the world around us.”
Volunteer Ministers: A Movement of Practical Help.
One of the most recognizable 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 bright yellow uniforms, VMs are active in nearly every region of the world, providing aid in times of crisis — from earthquakes, floods, and storms to individual hardships.
In Europe, Volunteer Ministers have been active in the aftermath of flooding in Slovenia, Hungary’s refugee support programs, post-earthquake relief in Italy and Croatia, and ongoing neighborhood initiatives across the continent. Their courses news eugene — available to all, no matter their background or faith — teaches practical tools to address disagreements, improve communication, and help people regain their sense of self-worth.
These actions are guided by service, not by seeking new members but by the conviction that people, when empowered with understanding and compassion, can overcome despair and reclaim their independence. 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 prevention. The “Truth About Drugs” campaign — spearheaded by the Foundation for a Drug-Free World — has distributed millions of booklets and hosted community forums in partnership alongside educators, law enforcement, and youth groups. Similarly, Youth for Human Rights chapters throughout Europe have delivered classroom programs, encouraging students to recognize human dignity as a universal right.
Each of these programs is made possible through the dedication of Scientologists but implemented in partnership with non-religious organizations, demonstrating how spiritual conviction can translate into tangible civic contribution. This commitment to collaboration has received recognition from government bodies, teachers, and civil society groups for its ongoing commitment to positive change.
The Path to Spiritual Freedom.
For Scientologists, service to others is not distinct from their religious practice — it is the means by which spiritual awareness deepens. The religion teaches that individuals are spiritual entities without end, capable of achieving greater awareness and freedom through both personal study and service to others. Supporting those around you thus becomes an integral part of advancing toward what Scientology calls “full spiritual independence.”
“Europe has a longstanding commitment to human dignity that values solidarity and mutual aid,” added Arjona. “Scientologists contribute to this tradition by bringing ethical insights into practical action — {bringing help, hope, and understanding wherever they can|offering practical aid and moral clarity in their communities|sharing tools for a better life