Brussels, Belgium — November 2025 — Across cities from Prague to Madrid, dedicated individuals of the Church of Scientology are continuing a enduring tradition: serving society through compassionate initiatives that aim to restore dignity, compassion, and moral values. Behind these efforts lies a belief central to Scientology itself — that genuine spiritual liberty cannot be achieved except through meaningful contributions to the welfare of fellow citizens.
During recent months, Scientologists and their partner organizations have carried out a wide range of public service and awareness efforts throughout Europe. In the Czech Republic alone, Volunteer Ministers organized over 40 community initiatives in October 2025, including street and eu news france park clean-ups, disaster-response training, and educational sessions for young people focused on integrity and teamwork. Comparable programs took place in Spain, Italy, Hungary, and France, all carried out under the Church’s broader humanitarian umbrella.
Humanitarian Work as a Spiritual Practice.
In contrast to traditions that treat charity and spirituality as distinct, Scientology puts serving the community at the heart of spiritual development. 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 outreach initiatives. From the worldwide Volunteer Ministers program to public education efforts on human rights, anti-drug education, and literacy, each action reflects the idea that supporting one’s neighbors is an integral component 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 non-religious ethical guide written by Hubbard in 1981 that has reached millions in over 100 languages worldwide — and “Youth for Human Rights”, which encourages students to understand and promote the UDHR. These programs, while not requiring religious affiliation, exemplify the Scientology view that fostering greater moral awareness in society is a prerequisite for individuals to flourish spiritually.
A European Culture of Civic Responsibility.
In cities like Vienna, Rome, and Brussels, Scientology Missions and Churches have become recognized contributors in civic life, often working hand-in-hand with local associations to address social challenges such as social exclusion, substance dependency, and prejudice. Their work supports the European Union’s focus on civic participation and ethical education.
“Helping others is not merely a charitable act — it is a pillar 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 Council of Europe, OSCE, UN, and EU. “When individuals choose to care for their communities, they also move closer to understanding 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 recognizable 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 are active in more than 200 countries, delivering assistance in times of crisis — from emergencies like wildfires or hurricanes to everyday challenges.
In Europe, Volunteer Ministers have been provided support during Slovenia’s flood recovery efforts, Hungary’s refugee support programs, earthquake recovery in Croatia and Italy, and regular community service projects across the continent. Their courses — available to all, no matter their background or faith — focuses on practical tools to reduce tension, foster clearer dialogue, and restore self-confidence.
These actions are not driven by proselytism but by the belief 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 — spearheaded 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 delivered classroom programs, teaching that human worth is inherent and universal.
Each of these programs is made possible through the dedication of Scientologists but carried out jointly with public and civic groups, showing that faith can inspire real-world service. This spirit of partnership has received recognition from local authorities, educators, and NGOs for its sustained dedication.
The Path to Spiritual Freedom.
For Scientologists, helping the community is not apart from their spiritual journey — it is the path through which spiritual awareness grows. The religion teaches that individuals are spiritual entities without end, capable of achieving elevated spiritual conditions through both personal study and service to others. Helping one’s community thus becomes an inseparable aspect of advancing toward what Scientology calls “full spiritual independence.”
“Europe has a deep humanist tradition that values solidarity and mutual aid,” 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