The Church of Scientology, founded in the early 1950s by science fiction writer L. Ron Hubbard, has garnered both fascination and controversy over the years. With its unique beliefs and practices, Scientology has attracted a significant number of followers worldwide. However, determining the exact number of Scientologists around the globe remains a challenging task. In this article, we will delve into the elusive world of Scientology and attempt to provide an overview of the global Scientologist community.
Scientology, often described as a new religious movement, places a strong emphasis on self-improvement through a set of doctrines and practices known as Dianetics. It claims to offer a path to spiritual enlightenment and a means to overcome personal limitations. Yet, the exact number of individuals who identify as Scientologists, or actively practice Scientology, is a subject of speculation and debate. Various estimates and conflicting reports exist, making it difficult to determine the true size and composition of this unique religious movement.
History of Scientology
Origins and founder of Scientology
Scientology was founded by science fiction writer L. Ron Hubbard in the early 1950s. Hubbard developed a self-help system known as Dianetics, which he later expanded into the religion of Scientology. He claimed that through his teachings, individuals could rid themselves of negative emotions and traumatic experiences, leading to increased happiness and spiritual enlightenment.
Key events and developments in the history of the church
Since its inception, the Church of Scientology has faced numerous legal battles and controversies. In 1967, Hubbard established the Sea Organization, a paramilitary group tasked with promoting and defending the church’s interests. The following decades saw the church expanding its influence globally, opening churches and mission centers in various countries.
However, Scientology has also been involved in several high-profile scandals and legal issues. In the 1970s, Operation Snow White, orchestrated by the church, involved infiltrating and stealing classified documents from US government agencies. This led to criminal charges, including those against Hubbard’s wife, Mary Sue Hubbard.
In the 1990s, the church faced intense scrutiny when several former high-ranking members revealed alleged abusive practices within the organization. These accusations included forced labor, physical and emotional abuse, and the practice of disconnection, where members are forced to cut ties with family and friends who are critical of Scientology.
In recent years, the Church of Scientology has been accused of financial exploitation and the mistreatment of its members. Numerous lawsuits have been filed against the church, and high-profile celebrities who were once associated with Scientology have publicly distanced themselves from the organization.
Despite these controversies, the Church of Scientology continues to operate and promote its teachings globally. It maintains a vast network of churches, outreach centers, and affiliated organizations in countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and South Africa, among others. The church also actively recruits new members through its various outreach programs and initiatives.
While the history of Scientology is marked by triumphs and controversies, it remains a significant spiritual movement with a dedicated following. The next section will delve into the core beliefs of Scientology, shedding light on the teachings and principles that form the foundation of this religious community.
ICore Beliefs of Scientology
Overview of the core principles and teachings of Scientology
The Church of Scientology is a religion that encompasses a set of beliefs and practices that aim to help individuals attain spiritual enlightenment and improve their lives. At the core of Scientology is the belief that humans are essentially spiritual beings, known as thetans, who are distinct from their physical bodies. According to Scientology, thetans are immortal and possess infinite potential.
Scientology teaches that human beings are essentially good and is rooted in the idea that individuals are responsible for their own actions and their own spiritual well-being. The religion offers a systematic approach to self-improvement and spiritual growth through a set of principles and practices known as Dianetics.
Dianetics, which is considered the foundation of Scientology, was developed by L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of the religion. It explores the relationship between the mind and the body, and aims to free individuals from the negative effects of past traumas, known as “engrams,” that inhibit personal growth. Through Dianetics, practitioners seek to achieve a state known as “Clear,” where the negative effects of engrams have been eradicated.
Scientology also places heavy emphasis on the concept of the thetan and the idea that each individual is essentially a spiritual being. Thetans are believed to have lived through many past lives and will continue to live in future lives. This concept of past lives and reincarnation is a fundamental belief in Scientology, and the religion offers practices such as auditing and counseling to help individuals uncover and address issues from their past lives that may be affecting their current well-being.
Emphasis on the spiritual nature of humans and the concept of the Thetan
Central to Scientology is the belief in the spiritual nature of humans and the concept of the thetan. The religion teaches that thetans are immortal spiritual beings who have lived through numerous past lives and will continue to live in future lives.
According to Scientology, thetans possess infinite potential and are essentially good. However, as thetans inhabit physical bodies, they can become influenced by negative experiences and past traumas, which can inhibit their spiritual growth and well-being. Scientology aims to help individuals overcome these obstacles through spiritual practices and self-improvement techniques.
Scientologists believe that by addressing and resolving the negative effects of past traumas, known as engrams, individuals can achieve a state of spiritual clarity and personal improvement. This state, known as “Clear,” is characterized by the absence of the negative influences of engrams and allows individuals to reach their full potential.
The concept of the thetan and the emphasis on the spiritual nature of humans sets Scientology apart from many other religions. While other religions may focus primarily on the afterlife or emphasize moral teachings, Scientology places a strong emphasis on personal spiritual growth and the potential for individuals to improve their lives in the present.
In summary, the core beliefs of Scientology center around the idea that individuals are spiritual beings, or thetans, who possess infinite potential. Through practices such as Dianetics and auditing, Scientology aims to help individuals overcome past traumas and negative influences in order to achieve spiritual clarity and personal improvement. This emphasis on the spiritual nature of humans and the concept of the thetan distinguishes Scientology from other religious traditions.
IStructure and Organization of the Church of Scientology
In this section, we will delve into the structure and organization of the Church of Scientology. Understanding the hierarchical framework and key positions within the church will provide insight into the inner workings and decision-making processes of this global religious movement.
Hierarchical Structure:
The Church of Scientology operates under a hierarchical structure that is central to its functionality. At the pinnacle of the organization is the Church’s leader, the Chairman of the Board, who holds significant control over the church’s operations and policies. Below the Chairman of the Board, various boards and committees assist in governing different aspects of the church. These include the Religious Technology Center, which safeguards the purity of the religion’s teachings, and the Church of Scientology International, which oversees the global expansion of the church.
Key Positions and Responsibilities:
Within the Church of Scientology, there are several key positions with specific responsibilities. One such position is that of the Church Executive and its divisions, which focus on the administration and management of the church at a global level. Another important position is that of the auditors, who facilitate the religious practice of auditing – a key tenet of Scientology – to help individuals overcome personal traumas and conflicts.
Furthermore, the church has various departments and specialized roles, including Public Relations, Legal Affairs, and Celebrity Centres. Each of these departments plays a vital role in promoting the church, managing legal matters, and catering to the unique needs of its celebrity members, respectively.
These roles and responsibilities collectively contribute to the functioning and growth of the Church of Scientology as an organized religious institution.
Conclusion:
Understanding the structure and organization of the Church of Scientology gives insight into how decisions are made and implemented within this global religious movement. The hierarchical framework, with its central leadership and various boards and committees, ensures the church’s stability and consistency. Moreover, the key positions within the church, such as the auditors and the Church Executive, play vital roles in administering and practicing Scientology.
By examining the structure and organization of the Church of Scientology, we gain a deeper understanding of the inner workings of this religious movement and how it manages its diverse operations on a global scale.
Different Types of Scientologists
Classification of Scientologists based on involvement levels and commitment
In understanding the global Scientologist community, it is important to recognize that there are different types of Scientologists based on their level of involvement and commitment to the Church of Scientology. These classifications provide insights into the diverse nature of the community and the varying degrees of engagement within it.
One category of Scientologists includes those who are considered full-time staff members of the Church. These individuals dedicate their lives to service and are responsible for running the various church organizations, missions, and centers around the world. Staff members receive extensive training in Scientology and are committed to upholding the principles of the church. Their roles can range from administration and management to delivering auditing services and conducting Scientology courses.
Another category of Scientologists comprises regular members who participate in the activities and services offered by the Church but are not full-time staff members. These individuals may hold jobs outside of the church and engage with Scientology as a part of their personal spiritual practice. Regular members contribute financially and may attend auditing sessions, Scientology courses, and community events.
Explanation of the differentiation between staff members and regular members
Staff members within the Church of Scientology play a crucial role in its operation and expansion. They live and work within dedicated church facilities, adhering to a strict schedule and code of conduct. Staff members receive training in various aspects of the church’s teachings and technology, enabling them to provide services to both staff members and regular members.
Regular members, on the other hand, do not have the same level of commitment as staff members. They have the flexibility to engage with Scientology while maintaining their personal and professional lives outside of the church. Regular members can choose the extent to which they involve themselves in church activities, ranging from occasional participation to a more dedicated commitment.
It is important to note that while both staff members and regular members play a vital role within the Scientologist community, their levels of dedication and involvement differ. Staff members are responsible for the day-to-day functioning and maintenance of the church, whereas regular members contribute to the community through their attendance, financial support, and personal development.
Understanding the different types of Scientologists helps to illustrate the range of engagement within the global Scientologist community. This diversity contributes to the richness of the community as individuals with varying degrees of commitment come together to pursue their spiritual journeys within the teachings of Scientology.
# Expansion Efforts and Global Presence
## Introduction
In this section, we will explore the expansion efforts and global presence of the Church of Scientology. This includes an overview of the church’s strategies to extend its reach internationally and notable Scientology centers and communities around the world.
## Overview of Expansion Efforts
The Church of Scientology has made significant efforts to expand its presence globally. The organization has established numerous churches, missions, and affiliated groups in countries around the world. These efforts are part of the church’s mission to reach as many people as possible with its teachings and practices.
The church employs various methods to achieve expansion. One of the key strategies is the dissemination of Scientology materials and courses. The church actively promotes its literature, DVDs, and online resources to attract new members and educate the public about its beliefs and practices. Additionally, the church conducts workshops, seminars, and lectures on Scientology principles and techniques in different regions.
## Prominent Scientology Centers and Communities
There are several prominent Scientology centers and communities around the world that serve as hubs for the local Scientologist population. One such notable center is the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre International, located in Los Angeles, California. This center caters to artists, performers, and celebrities who are interested in Scientology.
Another significant location is the Church of Scientology Flag Service Organization in Clearwater, Florida. This complex serves as the spiritual headquarters of the church and provides advanced services and training for Scientologists worldwide.
Additionally, there are Scientology churches in major cities across the globe, including London, Paris, Sydney, Tokyo, and Moscow. These churches offer a range of services, including counseling, spiritual guidance, and community programs.
Furthermore, there are Scientology-affiliated organizations, such as Narconon, which provides drug rehabilitation services based on Scientology principles, and Applied Scholastics, which promotes educational methods developed by Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard.
## Conclusion
The Church of Scientology’s expansion efforts have resulted in a significant global presence. Through its dissemination of materials, workshops, and centers, the organization has reached people from various backgrounds and geographical locations. The establishment of prominent Scientology centers and communities around the world reflects the church’s commitment to its mission of spiritual enlightenment and community outreach.
VChallenges and Controversies
Overview of Challenges and Controversies Faced by the Church of Scientology
The Church of Scientology, like many religious organizations, has faced its fair share of controversies and challenges throughout its history. These controversies have often brought negative attention to the church and have resulted in legal issues and high-profile scandals. This section will delve into some of the most significant challenges faced by the Church of Scientology.
Criticisms and Controversies
Critics of the Church of Scientology argue that it operates more like a business than a religious institution. They claim that the church’s practices, such as charging exorbitant fees for its courses and services, are exploitative. Furthermore, some former members have come forward with allegations of abusive behavior, including physical and emotional abuse by church officials. These accusations have tarnished the church’s reputation and led to public scrutiny.
Legal Issues and Scandals
The Church of Scientology has been involved in numerous legal battles over the years. One of the most notable cases was the legal and public relations conflict with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in the United States. The church fought for years to be recognized as a tax-exempt religious organization, a battle that culminated in an agreement with the IRS in 1993. This victory solidified the church’s status as a religious entity in the eyes of the law.
Another scandal that brought negative attention to the Church of Scientology was the resignation and subsequent defection of several high-ranking officials. These defectors made sensational allegations against the church, claiming that it engaged in abusive practices and operated a “brainwashing” system. These allegations resulted in media coverage and further damaged the church’s reputation.
Impact on the Church
These controversies and challenges have undoubtedly had an impact on the Church of Scientology. The negative publicity and legal battles have caused some individuals to distance themselves from the organization, both as members and potential recruits. Furthermore, public opinion of the church has been significantly influenced by these controversies, which has further hindered the church’s growth and acceptance in mainstream society.
In response to the challenges and controversies it has faced, the Church of Scientology has embarked on public relations campaigns and legal battles to defend its practices and reputation. However, the controversy surrounding the church continues to persist, and its impact on the future growth and sustainability of the global Scientologist community remains to be seen.
Overall, it is clear that the Church of Scientology faces significant challenges and controversies that have shaped its public perception and reputation. The next section will delve into the growth and decline of the Scientologist community over the years, shedding light on the factors that have contributed to these trends.
VIGrowth and Decline of the Scientology Community
In this section, we will analyze the growth trends of the Scientologist community over the years and examine the factors contributing to the decline or rise in membership numbers. The dynamics of the community are influenced by various internal and external factors, which will be explored in this section.
Factors Contributing to Growth:
Scientology has experienced periods of significant growth throughout its history. One of the key factors contributing to the rise in membership numbers is the church’s active recruitment efforts. The church employs various strategies, including hosting events, offering introductory courses, and using social media platforms to attract new members.
Another factor fueling growth is the appeal of Scientology’s spiritual teachings. The church emphasizes personal development and self-improvement, which attract individuals seeking spiritual fulfillment and answers to life’s existential questions. Moreover, the concept of auditing, a central practice in Scientology, promises individuals a path to self-discovery and achieving spiritual enlightenment, further attracting new members.
Factors Contributing to Decline:
However, the Scientology community has also faced periods of decline in membership. One factor contributing to this decline is the negative publicity and controversies surrounding the church. Over the years, the Church of Scientology has been involved in various legal battles and high-profile scandals. These controversies have led to public skepticism and criticism, deterring potential members from joining the community.
Additionally, the hierarchical structure and strict organizational control within the church have been cited as factors leading to decline. Some former members have criticized the church’s practices as controlling and manipulative, causing them to leave the community. This, along with reports of alleged abuse and mistreatment within the church, has contributed to a decrease in membership numbers.
Difficulty in Determining Exact Number of Scientologists:
Estimating the exact number of Scientologists worldwide is challenging due to several factors. Firstly, the Church of Scientology does not publicly disclose its membership figures, making it difficult to obtain reliable data. The church also does not release its internal records, adding to the lack of transparency.
Additionally, there is a significant number of independent Scientologists who may not be affiliated with the Church of Scientology. These individuals may practice Scientology independently and do not fall within the official membership count. Furthermore, the Freewinds, a Scientology cruise ship, caters to dedicated Scientologists but operates separately from the church, adding further complexity to estimating the global Scientologist population.
Conclusion:
The growth and decline of the Scientology community have been influenced by various factors. Active recruitment efforts, spiritual teachings, controversies, and organizational issues have all played a role in shaping the community’s dynamics. Determining the exact number of Scientologists globally is challenging due to the lack of transparency and the presence of independent Scientologists. Despite these challenges, the diversity of the global Scientologist community continues to evolve, presenting both future prospects and challenges for the Church of Scientology.
# Difficulty in Determining Exact Number of Scientologists
## Challenges in Estimating the Global Scientologist Population
Estimating the exact number of Scientologists worldwide is a challenging task due to several factors. The Church of Scientology has not disclosed specific membership figures, making it difficult to obtain accurate data. Moreover, the church does not release regular reports or conduct public surveys on the number of its followers. As a result, researchers and analysts have to rely on indirect methods to estimate the global Scientologist population.
One of the primary challenges in determining the exact number of Scientologists is the decentralized nature of the religion. Unlike other organized religions with clear membership structures, the Church of Scientology does not have centralized record-keeping or a formal registration process for its followers. This lack of a central database makes it challenging to gather comprehensive data on the number of active members.
Furthermore, the Church of Scientology practices confidentiality regarding its members’ personal information. This strict policy restricts the sharing of individual membership details, making it nearly impossible to collect data through conventional means such as surveys or censuses. The church’s emphasis on privacy also contributes to the difficulty in obtaining reliable information about its global community.
Another factor that hinders the estimation of the global Scientologist population is the controversy and criticism surrounding the organization. The Church of Scientology has faced numerous controversies and legal battles, leading some individuals to distance themselves from the church while still identifying as Scientologists. These independent Scientologists may not be affiliated with the official church, making it challenging to include them in any estimates of the overall community.
## Factors Contributing to the Lack of Reliable Data on Membership Figures
Several factors contribute to the lack of reliable data on the number of Scientologists worldwide. The church’s secretive nature, lack of transparency, and strict control over information make it difficult for independent researchers to obtain accurate figures. Additionally, the controversial nature of the church has led to a reluctance among individuals to publicly disclose their affiliation, further complicating data collection efforts.
Moreover, the Church of Scientology has been accused of inflating its membership numbers in the past. Critics argue that the organization has a vested interest in portraying a larger-than-life image, potentially leading to exaggerated reports of its followers. This skepticism surrounding the accuracy of the church’s own claims further adds to the challenge of accurately estimating the global Scientologist community.
The international variation in the recognition of the Church of Scientology as a religion also contributes to the lack of reliable data. While Scientology is recognized as a religion in some countries, it faces legal and social challenges in others. The absence of consistent recognition in all nations makes it difficult to gather comprehensive data on the total number of Scientologists worldwide.
In conclusion, determining the exact number of Scientologists globally is a complex task. The lack of transparency, decentralized nature, controversial reputation, and strict control over information by the Church of Scientology all contribute to the challenges in estimating the global Scientologist population. These factors, coupled with the absence of reliable data, make it challenging to attain an accurate figure for the number of individuals practicing Scientology worldwide.
X. Independent Scientologists and Freewinds Community
Overview of Independent Scientologists
Independent Scientologists are individuals who may align with the teachings and principles of Scientology but are not affiliated with the Church of Scientology. These individuals often follow their own interpretations of the Scientology philosophy and practices.
Unlike members of the Church, independent Scientologists choose to distance themselves from the official organization due to disagreements with its leadership, policies, or practices. They may have concerns about the hierarchy and control within the Church, and prefer to practice Scientology independently or in smaller groups.
Independent Scientologists have formed their own communities, both online and offline, where they can share knowledge, experiences, and resources related to Scientology. They often focus on personal spiritual growth, rather than engaging in the organized activities of the Church.
Introduction to the Freewinds
The Freewinds is a unique aspect of the Scientology community, catering specifically to dedicated Scientologists. It is a cruise ship owned and operated by the Church of Scientology that serves as a religious retreat and training center. The ship offers various courses, auditing services, and religious ceremonies to its passengers.
The Freewinds provides a dedicated environment for Scientologists to immerse themselves in advanced spiritual training and practices. It offers a range of specialized services, including courses on the highest levels of Scientology known as Operating Thetan levels. The ship also hosts events, conventions, and religious celebrations exclusively for its passengers.
The Freewinds has become a symbol of the dedication and commitment of Scientologists. For many, it represents an opportunity to further progress on their spiritual journey within the realm of Scientology. Passengers on the ship are often considered to be some of the most devoted and active members of the Scientology community.
Despite controversies and criticisms surrounding the Church of Scientology, the Freewinds continues to attract dedicated Scientologists from around the world. It remains a central hub for the practice of Scientology at its most advanced levels and serves as a distinct subset within the global Scientologist community.
In conclusion, independent Scientologists and the Freewinds both contribute to the diversity of the global Scientologist community. Independent Scientologists offer a different perspective on the philosophy and practice of Scientology, emphasizing personal autonomy and individual interpretation. The Freewinds provides a unique environment for dedicated Scientologists to further their spiritual journey. Together, these aspects reflect the complex and varied nature of the global Scientology community. However, it is important to note that the exact number of independent Scientologists and Freewinds passengers is difficult to determine due to the decentralized nature of these groups and the lack of comprehensive, reliable data.
Regional Distribution of Scientologists
Examination of the geographic distribution of Scientologists worldwide
Scientology, as a global religion, has a presence in various countries around the world. The regional distribution of Scientologists provides insight into the spread and popularity of the religion across different continents and cultural contexts.
One key region with a significant concentration of Scientologists is North America. The United States, in particular, has a large number of Scientologists, with the Church of Scientology having established numerous centers and communities throughout the country. Cities like Los Angeles and Clearwater, Florida, are known as major Scientology hubs, attracting members from all over the country and even internationally. Canada also has a notable Scientologist population, primarily in cities like Toronto and Vancouver.
Europe is another region where Scientology has a notable presence. The United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and Spain are among the European countries with significant Scientology communities. In the UK, Scientology centers can be found in cities like London and Birmingham. Germany has seen both Scientology centers and disputes with the government over its legal status. Italy and Spain also have active Scientology communities, although their numbers may not be as large as in other European countries.
Australia and New Zealand are two countries in the Asia-Pacific region that have sizable Scientologist populations. Sydney and Melbourne in Australia are known for having prominent Scientology establishments. In New Zealand, cities like Auckland and Wellington have active Scientology communities.
Latin America is emerging as a region with a growing Scientologist presence. Mexico, Brazil, and Colombia have seen an increase in Scientology centers and communities over the years. Mexico City and São Paulo are among the cities with significant Scientology populations in the region.
It is important to note that estimating the exact number of Scientologists in each country is challenging due to the church’s cautiousness in making its membership figures public. Additionally, some countries may have stricter regulations or negative perceptions regarding Scientology, which might limit its visibility or growth in those areas.
Identification of countries with significant Scientology communities
While Scientology has followers in numerous countries, there are some nations where the religion has gained notable traction. Countries with significant Scientology communities include:
1. United States: With the Church of Scientology’s headquarters and major centers located in the United States, it is home to a considerable number of Scientologists.
2. United Kingdom: The UK is recognized as one of the countries with a significant Scientology presence, particularly in cities like London.
3. Canada: Canada is home to various Scientology centers and communities, primarily in cities such as Toronto and Vancouver.
4. Germany: Germany is known for its complex relationship with Scientology, with both active centers and legal disputes surrounding the religion.
5. Australia: Australia has a significant concentration of Scientologists, with Sydney and Melbourne being prominent locations for Scientology activities.
6. Mexico: Mexico has seen an increase in the presence of Scientology centers and communities, particularly in Mexico City.
7. Brazil: Brazil is another Latin American country with a growing Scientology community, with São Paulo being a significant hub.
These countries represent a snapshot of the regional distribution of Scientologists and highlight the religion’s global reach. It is important to mention that Scientology’s presence extends beyond these countries and into various regions worldwide.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Scientology is a global religion with a diverse community of followers spread across different regions. The regional distribution of Scientologists showcases the religion’s presence in areas such as North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and beyond. While certain countries have notable concentrations of Scientologists, estimating the exact number of followers remains challenging due to the lack of publicly available membership figures. Moving forward, the Church of Scientology continues to face both opportunities and challenges as it navigates its future growth and seeks to expand its global presence.
XConclusion
Summary of the global Scientologist community and its diversity
In conclusion, the global Scientologist community is a diverse group of individuals who follow the teachings and principles of the Church of Scientology. With origins dating back to the mid-20th century, Scientology has grown into an international movement with a strong presence in various countries around the world.
Scientology’s core beliefs emphasize the spiritual nature of humans and the concept of the Thetan, which is central to the church’s teachings. The hierarchical structure within the Church of Scientology plays a crucial role in maintaining the organization’s operations, with key positions and roles defining the responsibilities of its members.
There are different types of Scientologists, classified based on their involvement levels and commitment to the church. Staff members, who work within the church, have a more dedicated role compared to regular members. The church has also made significant efforts to expand its presence globally, establishing prominent centers and communities in various countries.
However, the Church of Scientology has faced challenges and controversies throughout its history. It has been widely criticized, and some high-profile scandals and legal issues have tarnished its reputation. Despite these challenges, the global Scientologist community has experienced both growth and decline over the years, influenced by various factors such as public perception, leadership changes, and the effectiveness of recruitment efforts.
Determining the exact number of Scientologists worldwide is a complex task. There is a lack of reliable data on membership figures, and estimating the global Scientologist population is challenging due to the secretive nature of the church and the autonomy of individual Scientologists.
Beyond the Church of Scientology, there are also independent Scientologists who may not be affiliated with the organization but still adhere to its teachings. Additionally, the Freewinds, a Scientology cruise ship, serves as a dedicated community for Scientologists seeking spiritual fulfillment.
Geographically, Scientology has a notable presence in several countries, with significant communities in places like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Germany, among others. These communities often involve various activities, courses, and services provided by the church.
Looking ahead, the Church of Scientology continues to face both prospects and challenges. As controversies persist and society evolves, the organization will need to adapt and address criticisms to maintain its community and spread its message. The future growth of the Scientologist community will depend on various factors, including changes in leadership, outreach efforts, and public perception.