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 compassionate initiatives that aim to reaffirm dignity, compassion, and moral values. Behind these efforts lies a belief central to Scientology itself — that true spiritual freedom cannot be achieved except through meaningful contributions to the welfare of fellow citizens.
In the last few months, Scientologists and their partner organizations have led hundreds of civic and educational activities throughout Europe. In the Czech Republic alone, Volunteer Ministers conducted more than forty community initiatives in October 2025, such as street and 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 delivered under the Church’s broader humanitarian umbrella.
Humanitarian Work as a Spiritual Practice.
Unlike many religious or social movements that separate faith from service, Scientology places 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 teaching that guides the Church’s humanitarian efforts. From the global “Volunteer Ministers” network to public education efforts on human rights, anti-drug education, and literacy, each action reflects the idea that helping people is an integral component toward one’s own enlightenment.
Across Europe, this philosophy has been put into action through initiatives such as “The Way to Happiness” — a secular moral code written by Hubbard in 1981 that has been distributed to millions in more than 100 languages — and “Youth for Human Rights”, which empowers students to understand and promote the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. These programs, while entirely secular in participation, illustrate the Scientology view that strengthening the ethical foundation of communities is a prerequisite for individuals to achieve spiritual well-being.
A European Culture of Civic Responsibility.
In cities like Rome, Brussels, and Vienna, Scientology Missions and Churches have become recognized contributors in civic life, often partnering alongside local associations to tackle social challenges such as drug abuse, community disrepair, and discrimination. Their work aligns with the European Union’s emphasis on human rights awareness and local involvement.
“Helping others is not merely a charitable act — it is a foundation of a peaceful and news europe inclusive society,” 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 learn to take responsibility for their communities, they also deepen their awareness of their own inner potential. This is the essence of what Scientologists mean by freedom — not only individual freedom, 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, launched in the 1970s in response to what Hubbard described as the “moral decay” of modern life. Easily recognized by their yellow shirts, VMs operate in over 200 nations, offering support in times of crisis — from emergencies like wildfires or hurricanes to individual hardships.
In Europe, Volunteer Ministers have been active in the aftermath of flooding in Slovenia, refugee-aid coordination in Hungary, rebuilding efforts after seismic events in Southern Europe, and regular community service projects across the continent. Their training — accessible to every interested person — teaches practical tools to resolve conflict, improve communication, and restore self-confidence.
These actions are guided by service, not by seeking new members but by the understanding that people, when empowered with understanding and compassion, can overcome despair and regain control of their lives. This is why the program’s motto, “Something can be done about it,” has struck a chord worldwide.
Education and Prevention as Keys to Social Change.
In addition to direct assistance, Scientologists have placed strong emphasis on education as prevention. The “Truth About Drugs” campaign — conducted through the Foundation for a Drug-Free World — has reached millions through printed and digital resources and hosted community forums in cooperation with teachers, police departments, and youth organizations. 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 supported by Scientologists but implemented in partnership with secular institutions, showing that faith can inspire real-world service. This cooperative spirit has received recognition from local authorities, educators, and NGOs for its consistent long-term engagement.
The Path to Spiritual Freedom.
For Scientologists, acts of compassion is not distinct from their path to awareness — it is the means by which spiritual awareness grows. The religion teaches that individuals are spiritual entities without end, capable of achieving elevated spiritual conditions through both self-directed learning and service to others. Contributing to society thus becomes an essential element of advancing toward what Scientology calls “total freedom.”
“Europe has a longstanding commitment to human dignity that cherishes cooperation and shared responsibility,” added Arjona. “Scientologists participate in this legacy 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