MISSIONARY WORK

Not unlike early missionaries who braved sometimes challenging environments to bring their religion to far-flung countries, Scientology missionaries today take up a similar challenge: bringing the technology of Dianetics and Scientology into new areas. Whether this be a small town, a whole section of a city in the USA, or a mountain village in farthest Nepal, it’s equally an adventure to the Scientology missionary.

Any location on the international map that does not already have a Church of Scientology is an area where a Scientology Mission can be opened.

A Scientology Mission, as opposed to a fully-fledged Church of Scientology, can deliver basic Scientology and Dianetics services, consisting of courses and/or personal counselling. Personal counselling in Dianetics and Scientology is called “auditing”, from the Latin “audire”, to listen; and a Scientology “auditor” or counsellor is one who listens.

The Director of a Scientology Mission is usually referred to by the title of “Mission Holder”, as he holds the rights and responsibilities of disseminating and delivering Scientology services in his parish. He or she is usually assisted in the day to day running of the mission activities by an Executive Director. A Mission is fully recognized and licensed by the mother Church to deliver services, and often expands to become a full Church of Scientology, able to deliver more advanced Dianetics and Scientology services.

The opening of a Scientology Mission in a new city or town may begin with an individual reading one or more of L. Ron Hubbard’s books, and recognizing the need for Dianetics and Scientology technology in his community. For here is a practical religious philosophy that improves the individual and the society around him. Or Missions may be founded by individual Scientologists who, having experienced the benefits of Scientology themselves, want to introduce their religion to others so that they can have similar gains. Either way, starting a Mission is considered by Scientologists as very much a pioneer activity and an adventure, as well as bringing the personal satisfaction of real purpose, and the ability to do something about changing conditions in the world.