The holidays are a time for reflection, celebration, and community, and the Church of Scientology is no exception. During Christmas, Scientologists around the world engage in various activities that blend their faith with traditional holiday cheer, creating unique stories and traditions that inspire wonder. Let's delve into some of these captivating tales, illustrating how the Church of Scientology weaves its own magic into the season.
Christmas, in Scientology, is not just about gift-giving or decorative trees. It's a time to renew spiritual goals, fostergoodwill, and help those in need. Let's explore how Scientology's unique take on Christmas creates meaningful experiences and enduring memories.
The Spirit of Helping Others
The spirit of Christmas is encapsulated in Scientology's core belief in assisting others. This is exemplified in the annual "How & Why" booklet, distributed worldwide during the holidays, which contains practical solutions to daily life problems. The booklet's delivery is often a heartwarming story itself, involving volunteers trudging through snow, knocking on doors, or distributing the books in crowded city centers.
One year, in Washington D.C., volunteers braved a blizzard, delivering warmth and inspiration alongside the "How & Why" booklets. Despite the harsh conditions, they आacious, demonstrating the true meaning of Christmas for Scientologists: helping others, regardless of the circumstances.
Volunteer Marathon
Every Christmas, the Volunteers Marathon takes place, where Scientologists dedicate their time to community services. From cleaning parks to feeding the homeless, these volunteers embody the spirit of the season. In 2019, over 100,000 Scientologists participated in 18,000 community events worldwide, transforming landscapes and lives.
In Philadelphia, volunteers planted 1,500 trees, creating a living legacy for future generations. In South Africa, they maintained 400 miles of hiking trails, ensuring that the natural beauty of the area could be enjoyed by all. These are not just Volunteer Marathons; they are living examples of Scientology's commitment to creating a better world, one community at a time.
Christmas Parties with a Twist
Scientology Christmas parties are not mere celebrations; they are occasions for enlightenment and inspiration. Commendations are presented to volunteers who have made a significant impact, while speeches highlight the principles practiced during the year. Yet, the heart of these events lies in the stories told.
A Scientologist in South Africa once shared a moving account of his evolution from a man haunted by his past to one filled with hope and purpose. His story, told during a Christmas party, inspired many to reflect on their own journeys and find the 'impossible' within themselves. These stories, exchanged during the holidays, bind Scientologists together and serve as touchstones for their spiritual growth.
The Season of Renewal
Christmas in Scientology is also a time for renewal. It's a period to reflect on one's spiritual progress and recommit to personal growth. The story of L. Ron Hubbard's "Holiday Greetings" is often shared during this time. In it, Hubbard reminded Scientologists: "We are not out to make a dime or a dollar, but to improve conditions for all life on Earth."
This reminder resonates deeply with Scientologists, who see their faith not as a destination, but as a path towards greater awareness and responsibility.
Clearing the Planet
In Scientology, Christmas is also a time to set audacious goals. The 'Clear the Planet' initiative, launched during the holidays, aims to free humanity from spiritual ignorance and suffering. The goal is to make the planet 'clear' - a state where all individuals are free from mental and spiritual barriers.
The 'Clear the Planet' campaign is not just a vision; it's a tangible, global movement. Every Christmas, Scientologists set personal targets for auditing - the process of helping others become 'clears.' In 2020, despite the pandemic, Scientologists set a record of 30,000 auditing hours, demonstrating their commitment to creating a better world.
Christmas Miracles
In Scientology, Christmas is marked by personal breakthroughs and 'miracles.' One Christmas, a woman who had struggled with ill health for years suddenly regained her strength and vitality after completing a course of auditing. Her story, told against the backdrop of twinkling lights and festive cheer, was a true testament to the power of the spirit.
Another Scientologist, a single father, found the perfect gift for his daughter - a bicycle she had longed for - after completing an intensive auditing session. For him, ‘tis was indeed the season of miracles, made possible by his personal growth and spiritual progress.
As Christmas approaches, Scientologists worldwide prepare for a season filled with helping hands, stories of renewal, and miracles of the spirit. Their unique take on the holidays is not just about traditions; it's about transformation, creating a better world one holiday season at a time. And so, under the candlelight and the Christmas tree, they continue their journey, spreading goodwill, hope, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.