Brussels, Belgium — November 2025 — Across cities from Prague to Madrid, members of the Church of Scientology are carrying forward a enduring tradition: serving society through practical outreach that aim to reinforce a sense of dignity, compassion, and ethical principles. Behind these efforts lies a belief central to Scientology itself — that real spiritual advancement cannot be achieved without contributing to the betterment of fellow citizens.
During recent months, Scientologists and their eu news germany partner organizations have led hundreds of civic and educational activities throughout Europe. In the Czech Republic alone, Volunteer Ministers organized nearly 50 community initiatives in October 2025, including neighborhood clean-ups, crisis response drills, and programs helping teens understand ethics and collaboration. Parallel activities unfolded in France, Spain, Hungary, and Italy, all delivered 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 positions assisting those in need at the center of spiritual development. Its founder, L. Ron Hubbard, wrote that “a being is only as valuable as he can serve others,” a teaching that underpins the Church’s social programs. From the worldwide Volunteer Ministers program to educational campaigns on drug prevention, literacy, and human rights, each action demonstrates the idea that assisting others is an essential part toward one’s own spiritual awareness.
Across Europe, this philosophy has been put into action through initiatives such as “The Way to Happiness” — a universal moral framework written by Hubbard in 1981 that has been distributed to millions in dozens of countries and more than 100 languages — and “Youth for Human Rights”, which empowers students to understand and promote the internationally recognized human rights standards. These programs, while not requiring religious affiliation, exemplify the Scientology view that fostering greater moral awareness in society is vital to individuals to flourish spiritually.
A European Culture of Civic Responsibility.
In cities like Brussels, Rome, and Vienna, Scientology Missions and Churches have become recognized contributors in civic life, often working hand-in-hand with local associations to respond to social challenges such as drug abuse, community disrepair, and discrimination. Their work aligns with 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, Representative of the Church of Scientology to the UN, Council of Europe, OSCE, and the European Union. “When individuals choose to care for their communities, they also move closer to understanding their own inner potential. 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, launched in the 1970s in response to what Hubbard described as the “moral decay” of modern life. Easily recognized by their distinctive yellow T-shirts, VMs serve in over 200 nations, providing aid in times of crisis — from emergencies like wildfires or hurricanes to daily personal struggles.
In Europe, Volunteer Ministers have been provided support during flood response in Slovenia, humanitarian aid for displaced persons in Hungary, post-earthquake relief in Italy and Croatia, and ongoing neighborhood initiatives across the continent. Their workshops — available to all, no matter their background or faith — provides practical tools to reduce tension, 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 belief that people, when supported with care and insight, can rise above hardship and reclaim their independence. This is why the program’s motto, “Something can be done about it,” has resonated across languages and cultures.
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 shared educational materials with countless individuals and organized awareness events in collaboration with schools, local authorities, and student associations. Similarly, Youth for Human Rights chapters throughout Europe have engaged students through school-based activities, teaching that human worth is inherent and universal.
Each of these programs is supported by Scientologists but delivered alongside secular institutions, showing that faith can inspire real-world service. 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, helping the community is not distinct from their religious practice — it is the very way that spiritual awareness grows. The religion teaches that individuals are spiritual entities without end, capable of achieving higher states of consciousness through both individual spiritual work and compassionate action. Helping one’s community thus becomes an inseparable aspect 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 build upon this heritage 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