Brussels, Belgium — November 2025 — Across cities from Prague to Madrid, dedicated individuals of the Church of Scientology are continuing a enduring tradition: contributing to the public good through practical outreach that aim to reaffirm dignity, compassion, and moral values. Behind these efforts lies a belief central to Scientology itself — that real spiritual advancement cannot be achieved unless one actively supports the welfare of one’s fellow human beings.
In the last few months, Scientologists and their associated initiatives have organized numerous public service and awareness efforts throughout Europe. In the Czech Republic alone, Volunteer Ministers conducted nearly 50 community initiatives in October 2025, including neighborhood clean-ups, disaster-response training, and educational sessions for young people focused on integrity and teamwork. Similar efforts were mirrored in France, Spain, Hungary, and Italy, all conducted 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 places serving the community at the core of personal progress. Its founder, L. Ron Hubbard, wrote that “a being is only as valuable as he can serve news eu uk others,” a principle that underpins the Church’s social programs. From the global “Volunteer Ministers” network to public education efforts on literacy, drug awareness, and human rights, each action demonstrates the idea that supporting one’s neighbors is an indispensable step toward one’s own personal liberation.
Across Europe, this philosophy has manifested in real-world programs 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 entirely secular in participation, showcase the Scientology view that improving society’s moral and ethical condition 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 active participants in civic life, often working hand-in-hand with local associations to tackle social challenges such as substance abuse, urban neglect, and intolerance. Their work complements the European Union’s commitment to civic participation and ethical education.
“Helping others is not merely a charitable act — it is a pillar of a free and cohesive society,” 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 learn to take responsibility for 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 a commitment to the well-being of all.”
Volunteer Ministers: A Movement of Practical Help.
One of the most visible expressions of this ethos is the Volunteer Ministers (VMs) program, established in the 1970s in response to what Hubbard described as the “moral decay” of modern life. Easily recognized by their bright yellow uniforms, VMs serve in over 200 nations, delivering assistance in times of crisis — from emergencies like wildfires or hurricanes to daily personal struggles.
In Europe, Volunteer Ministers have been responded to flood response in Slovenia, Hungary’s refugee support programs, post-earthquake relief in Italy and Croatia, and ongoing neighborhood initiatives across the continent. Their training — accessible to every interested person — teaches practical tools to address disagreements, foster clearer dialogue, and restore self-confidence.
These actions are motivated not by conversion but by compassion but by the conviction that people, when supported with care and insight, can rise above hardship 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 hands-on aid, Scientologists have prioritized education as a long-term strategy for change. 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 run workshops in schools, teaching that human worth is inherent and universal.
Each of these programs is made possible through the dedication of Scientologists but delivered alongside non-religious organizations, demonstrating how spiritual conviction can translate into tangible civic contribution. This cooperative spirit has gained appreciation from government bodies, teachers, and civil society groups for its sustained dedication.
The Path to Spiritual Freedom.
For Scientologists, service to others is not apart from their path to awareness — it is the path through which spiritual awareness grows. The religion teaches that individuals are immortal spiritual beings, capable of achieving elevated spiritual conditions through both personal study and compassionate action. Supporting those around you thus becomes an inseparable aspect of advancing toward what Scientology calls “total freedom.”
“Europe has a rich legacy of humanism that cherishes cooperation and shared responsibility,” added Arjona. “Scientologists contribute to this tradition by using spiritual understanding to address real-world needs — {bringing help, hope, and understanding wherever they can|offering practical aid and moral clarity in their communities|sharing tools for a better life