North America’s Largest Church of Scientology Premieres in the San Fernando Valley

Massive new Scientology Church sheds her ribbon to launch an epic season of expansion for the religion.

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Before a golden ribbon poised across an entire city block in the heart of the San Fernando Valley, 5,000 Scientologists and guests convened Sunday, March 19, to celebrate a monumental achievement: the opening of the region’s new Church of Scientology, the largest in North America. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

Before a golden ribbon poised across an entire city block in the heart of the San Fernando Valley, 5,000 Scientologists and guests convened Sunday, March 19, to celebrate a monumental achievement: the opening of the region’s new Church of Scientology, the largest in North America. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board Religious Technology Center, presides over a high-spirited inauguration ceremony, Sunday, March 19. The audience rose to their feet in resounding ovation after ovation throughout his dedication address. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board Religious Technology Center, presides over a high-spirited inauguration ceremony, Sunday, March 19. The audience rose to their feet in resounding ovation after ovation throughout his dedication address. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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Mr. Miscavige addresses the thousands in attendance during the grand inauguration ceremony held on Burbank Boulevard in the heart of North Hollywood. At 95,000 square-feet set on four acres, the Valley Church is a most expansive addition to Scientology’s expanding universe of Ideal Churches, now numbering 19 in the Western United States alone and 57 internationally. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

Mr. Miscavige addresses the thousands in attendance during the grand inauguration ceremony held on Burbank Boulevard in the heart of North Hollywood. At 95,000 square-feet set on four acres, the Valley Church is a most expansive addition to Scientology’s expanding universe of Ideal Churches, now numbering 19 in the Western United States alone and 57 internationally. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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Joined by Scientologists who spearheaded the efforts to bring this new Valley Church to life, Mr. Miscavige officially dedicates the region’s breathtaking Church of Scientology. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

Joined by Scientologists who spearheaded the efforts to bring this new Valley Church to life, Mr. Miscavige officially dedicates the region’s breathtaking Church of Scientology. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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The crowd of 5,000 Scientologists and guests erupts in cheers, as a massive new 95,000 square-foot Scientology Church is unveiled for the Valley. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

The crowd of 5,000 Scientologists and guests erupts in cheers, as a massive new 95,000 square-foot Scientology Church is unveiled for the Valley. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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On a perfect Southern California day, thousands of Scientologists gather to witness the historic moment when the Valley’s striking new home opens her doors. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

On a perfect Southern California day, thousands of Scientologists gather to witness the historic moment when the Valley’s striking new home opens her doors. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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With a burst of confetti and a chorus of applause ringing along Burbank Boulevard, the Church of Scientology Valley sheds her ribbon launching an epic new season of expansion for the Scientology religion. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

With a burst of confetti and a chorus of applause ringing along Burbank Boulevard, the Church of Scientology Valley sheds her ribbon launching an epic new season of expansion for the Scientology religion. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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The grand opening commences with a medley of classic film scores evoking the charm of the film industry for which the region has become famous. Performers rapidly segue into a “V for Valley” anthem written and scored for the occasion, bringing the 5,000 in attendance to their feet in jubilant celebration. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

The grand opening commences with a medley of classic film scores evoking the charm of the film industry for which the region has become famous. Performers rapidly segue into a “V for Valley” anthem written and scored for the occasion, bringing the 5,000 in attendance to their feet in jubilant celebration. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
© 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.
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© 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

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“Today, we dedicate a Church of Scientology for this Valley of Dreams,” said David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion. “As the San Fernando Valley is diverse, so too, is our help. And so, we welcome those from her myriad cultures, ethnicities and of any economic standing. In that respect, this Church perfectly reflects the Creed of Scientology, ‘That all men of whatever race, color or creed were created with equal rights. …And that the souls of men have the rights of men.’” © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

“Today, we dedicate a Church of Scientology for this Valley of Dreams,” said David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion. “As the San Fernando Valley is diverse, so too, is our help. And so, we welcome those from her myriad cultures, ethnicities and of any economic standing. In that respect, this Church perfectly reflects the Creed of Scientology, ‘That all men of whatever race, color or creed were created with equal rights. …And that the souls of men have the rights of men.’” I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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“Let’s face it, whether you’re Jewish, Catholic, Christian or Scientologist, we’re all here to make a better community and improve the outcome of each other’s lives. But the fact is, the Church of Scientology has taken on a leadership role among our Churches. You’ve been pivotal in unifying a faith-based movement that is offering and supporting alternative solutions. And you’ve done it in collaboration with every Valley Police Division. You are not only forging a public trust, but you are safeguarding our future. And that’s what I call: ‘living the faith.’”—Deputy Chief Robert Green, Los Angeles Police Department, Valley Bureau

© 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

“Let’s face it, whether you’re Jewish, Catholic, Christian or Scientologist, we’re all here to make a better community and improve the outcome of each other’s lives. But the fact is, the Church of Scientology has taken on a leadership role among our Churches. You’ve been pivotal in unifying a faith-based movement that is offering and supporting alternative solutions. And you’ve done it in collaboration with every Valley Police Division. You are not only forging a public trust, but you are safeguarding our future. And that’s what I call: ‘living the faith.’”—Deputy Chief Robert Green, Los Angeles Police Department, Valley Bureau

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“My first meaningful encounter with your Volunteer Ministers was during the Northridge Earthquake. You were there attending to victims and organizing supply lines. You brought vital resources including over forty truckloads of rations and ten tons of provisions. And day after day, week after week, for more than 10,000 volunteer hours, you committed yourselves to the city and our people. And for that, Los Angeles is thankful for the Church of Scientology.” —Deputy Chief Trevor Richmond, Los Angeles Fire Department, Valley Bureau

© 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

“My first meaningful encounter with your Volunteer Ministers was during the Northridge Earthquake. You were there attending to victims and organizing supply lines. You brought vital resources including over forty truckloads of rations and ten tons of provisions. And day after day, week after week, for more than 10,000 volunteer hours, you committed yourselves to the city and our people. And for that, Los Angeles is thankful for the Church of Scientology.” —Deputy Chief Trevor Richmond, Los Angeles Fire Department, Valley Bureau

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“With your Learning How to Learn, parents suddenly had a way to honestly help their kids. I remember one young girl who was failing her classes,” she told the crowd. “After just four weeks of tutoring, she was among the best in her grade. It’s impossible to forget her mother’s tears when she saw how such a simple, powerful tool had opened a new world of opportunity for her daughter. Yes, time and again you have turned lives destined for failure into bright, hopeful futures.” —Ms. Nellie Barrientos, Los Angeles Education Program Director

© 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

“With your Learning How to Learn, parents suddenly had a way to honestly help their kids. I remember one young girl who was failing her classes,” she told the crowd. “After just four weeks of tutoring, she was among the best in her grade. It’s impossible to forget her mother’s tears when she saw how such a simple, powerful tool had opened a new world of opportunity for her daughter. Yes, time and again you have turned lives destined for failure into bright, hopeful futures.” —Ms. Nellie Barrientos, Los Angeles Education Program Director

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“The world today is in need of serious resurrection. And in the face of that, Scientologists do it all on a grand scale. You’ve made up your mind that ‘we’re going to do this ‘til all hell freezes over, and even then, we’re going to do it on ice.’” —Bishop Franklin Harris, Executive Member of the Los Angeles County Clergy Council

© 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

“The world today is in need of serious resurrection. And in the face of that, Scientologists do it all on a grand scale. You’ve made up your mind that ‘we’re going to do this ‘til all hell freezes over, and even then, we’re going to do it on ice.’” —Bishop Franklin Harris, Executive Member of the Los Angeles County Clergy Council

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Once the ribbon falls, thousands pour through her doors, getting a first, awe-inspiring look at the new Valley Church where they will advance through Scientology services. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

Once the ribbon falls, thousands pour through her doors, getting a first, awe-inspiring look at the new Valley Church where they will advance through Scientology services. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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The excitement was electric as the thousands in attendance received their own up-close view of the newest Church of Scientology. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

The excitement was electric as the thousands in attendance received their own up-close view of the newest Church of Scientology. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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The new Church stands adjacent to North Hollywood’s bustling junction where Burbank and Lankershim Boulevards intersect with Tujunga Avenue and some 60,000 cars pass by every day. The facility spans 95,000 square-feet upon four acres, just blocks from the NoHo Arts District and is poised to engage community change makers across the region. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

The new Church stands adjacent to North Hollywood’s bustling junction where Burbank and Lankershim Boulevards intersect with Tujunga Avenue and some 60,000 cars pass by every day. The facility spans 95,000 square-feet upon four acres, just blocks from the NoHo Arts District and is poised to engage community change makers across the region. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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RECEPTION Open seven days a week, morning to night, the Church of Scientology of the Valley Reception welcomes anyone wishing to obtain an introduction to Dianetics and Scientology. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

RECEPTION Open seven days a week, morning to night, the Church of Scientology of the Valley Reception welcomes anyone wishing to obtain an introduction to Dianetics and Scientology. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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SCIENTOLOGY PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTER The Public Information Center offers some 500 films, providing a complete introduction to every aspect of Dianetics and Scientology. It includes the beliefs and practices of the religion, a biographical presentation on the life and legacy of Founder, L. Ron Hubbard, as well as the many humanitarian initiatives and community outreach programs the Church supports. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

SCIENTOLOGY PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTER The Public Information Center offers some 500 films, providing a complete introduction to every aspect of Dianetics and Scientology. It includes the beliefs and practices of the religion, a biographical presentation on the life and legacy of Founder, L. Ron Hubbard, as well as the many humanitarian initiatives and community outreach programs the Church supports. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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INTRODUCTORY SERVICES The Church of Scientology Valley provides for the delivery of all Introductory Services. These include an entire array of Scientology Life Improvement Courses to help better any aspect of one’s life. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

INTRODUCTORY SERVICES The Church of Scientology Valley provides for the delivery of all Introductory Services. These include an entire array of Scientology Life Improvement Courses to help better any aspect of one’s life. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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Among the many services available are evening and weekend Dianetics and Scientology seminars, imparting an overview of fundamental principles and their application in life. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

Among the many services available are evening and weekend Dianetics and Scientology seminars, imparting an overview of fundamental principles and their application in life. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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DIANETICS & SCIENTOLOGY BOOKSTORE The Church of Scientology Valley Bookstore makes available L. Ron Hubbard’s works on Dianetics and Scientology. In all, Mr. Hubbard’s legacy comprises tens of millions of published words in dozens of books and thousands of recorded lectures. A Materials Guide Chart provides an informational overview of every book and lecture series and the subjects contained within each. Materials are available in 50 languages. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

DIANETICS & SCIENTOLOGY BOOKSTORE The Church of Scientology Valley Bookstore makes available L. Ron Hubbard’s works on Dianetics and Scientology. In all, Mr. Hubbard’s legacy comprises tens of millions of published words in dozens of books and thousands of recorded lectures. A Materials Guide Chart provides an informational overview of every book and lecture series and the subjects contained within each. Materials are available in 50 languages. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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THE PURIFICATION CENTER Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard developed the Purification Program to free individuals from the mental and spiritual damage caused by drugs and toxins, through a regimen of exercise, sauna and nutrition—all of which are provided for in our Purification Center. The mural pays tribute to the San Fernando Valley’s heritage and ever-expanding cultural impact as a media and entertainment epicenter. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

THE PURIFICATION CENTER Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard developed the Purification Program to free individuals from the mental and spiritual damage caused by drugs and toxins, through a regimen of exercise, sauna and nutrition—all of which are provided for in our Purification Center. The mural pays tribute to the San Fernando Valley’s heritage and ever-expanding cultural impact as a media and entertainment epicenter. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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HUBBARD GUIDANCE CENTER The Hubbard Guidance Center is where Scientologists receive one-on-one spiritual counseling, known as auditing. Just beyond the waiting room are dozens of auditing rooms. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

HUBBARD GUIDANCE CENTER The Hubbard Guidance Center is where Scientologists receive one-on-one spiritual counseling, known as auditing. Just beyond the waiting room are dozens of auditing rooms. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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Each one of the thirty-three auditing rooms is ideally appointed to provide the calm, distraction-free setting requisite to achieving spiritual enlightenment. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

Each one of the thirty-three auditing rooms is ideally appointed to provide the calm, distraction-free setting requisite to achieving spiritual enlightenment. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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THE ACADEMY The Academy is where Scientologists train to become auditors (spiritual counselors), capable of applying the technology of auditing to help others attain spiritual freedom. The Valley Academy comprises multiple course rooms, each devoted to a different aspect of training. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

THE ACADEMY The Academy is where Scientologists train to become auditors (spiritual counselors), capable of applying the technology of auditing to help others attain spiritual freedom. The Valley Academy comprises multiple course rooms, each devoted to a different aspect of training. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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The Café The Café welcomes visitors touring the Church and provides a gathering place for those attending the many scheduled events. It is further provided for parishioners during breaks in their Scientology services. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

The Café The Café welcomes visitors touring the Church and provides a gathering place for those attending the many scheduled events. It is further provided for parishioners during breaks in their Scientology services. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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© 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

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THE CHAPEL The Chapel, lined with the Codes and Creed of the Church of Scientology, seats more than 1,000 and provides for all congregational ceremonies and services—including Sunday Services, Weddings and Naming Ceremonies. The Chapel also serves as an ideal venue for workshops, banquets and events. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

THE CHAPEL The Chapel, lined with the Codes and Creed of the Church of Scientology, seats more than 1,000 and provides for all congregational ceremonies and services—including Sunday Services, Weddings and Naming Ceremonies. The Chapel also serves as an ideal venue for workshops, banquets and events. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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© 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

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THE OFFICE OF L. RON HUBBARD As is tradition in all Churches of Scientology, the Office of L. Ron Hubbard stands in honor of the religion’s Founder and symbolizes that this Church is true to his writings and ideals. © 2024 Church of Scientology International. All Rights Reserved.

THE OFFICE OF L. RON HUBBARD As is tradition in all Churches of Scientology, the Office of L. Ron Hubbard stands in honor of the religion’s Founder and symbolizes that this Church is true to his writings and ideals. I agree to the Terms of Use for images.
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Massive new Scientology Church sheds her ribbon to launch an epic season of expansion for the religion.

Head north over the rise from Hollywood, cross Mulholland Drive, and behold a Valley dotted with swimming pools, lemon trees and stretching for all the eye to see. At 260 square miles, the San Fernando Valley is home to 1.8 million residents, the world’s most prominent movie studios and backdrops featured in American cinema from Casablanca to ET. It’s a paradox typical of society today: right next door, yet somehow still a world away.

But amidst all of that, a new light glows across the region’s forty-four cities and communities—from Burbank and Glendale to Hidden Hills and Calabasas to San Fernando and Universal City—the new Church of Scientology Valley serves all corners of the basin.

“Today, we dedicate a Church of Scientology for this Valley of Dreams,” said David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion. “As the San Fernando Valley is diverse, so too, is our help. And so, we welcome those from her myriad cultures, ethnicities and of any economic standing. In that respect, this Church perfectly reflects the Creed of Scientology, ‘That all men of whatever race, color or creed were created with equal rights. …And that the souls of men have the rights of men.’”

The Valley Church is a most expansive addition to Scientology’s expanding universe of Ideal Churches, now numbering 19 in the Western United States alone and 57 internationally. “Ideal” is the standard set by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard so that every Church could be a perfect expression of the religion’s principles and practices.

So it was, on Sunday, March 19 at 1p.m., 5,000 Scientologists gathered to witness the largest Ideal Church of Scientology in North America come to life. It was a ceremony befitting the size, scope and substance of the Valley’s new home itself, from a medley of classic film scores evoking the golden days of cinema, to the “V for Valley” anthem written and arranged especially for the occasion. The thousands in attendance rose to their feet in jubilant celebration and applauded each impassioned dignitary praising the Church’s greater social impact.

For the Valley congregation, that impact extends from helping a migrant child bridge the gap in her schooling with Study Technology, to helping tens of thousands of local youth take a pledge to be drug-free. And so, this grand opening now gives the Valley’s humanitarian outreach a permanent platform.

The new Church stands adjacent to North Hollywood’s bustling junction where Burbank and Lankershim Boulevards intersect with Tujunga Avenue and some 60,000 cars pass by every day. The facility spans 95,000 square-feet upon four acres, just blocks from the NoHo Arts District and is poised to engage community change makers across the region.

Bringing that commitment to light were representatives of the San Fernando Valley on hand to welcome the Church: Deputy Chief Robert Green of the Los Angeles Police Department, Valley Bureau; Deputy Chief, Trevor Richmond of the Los Angeles Fire Department, Valley Bureau; Ms. Nellie Barrientos, Los Angeles Education Program Director; and Bishop Franklin Harris, Executive Member of the Los Angeles County Clergy Council.

Deputy Chief Green began by pointing to the need for lectures on drug education, domestic violence and gang awareness and how Valley Scientologists have been pivotal in creating such initiatives with Clergy Councils and Police Stations throughout the basin.

“Together, we’ve reached at-risk kids and adults with vital intervention and education before they become victims or suspects. And now, we have changed the course of over 25,000 lives across the Valley.”

He further highlighted the Church’s example in uniting an interfaith crusade in the region. “Let’s face it, whether you’re Jewish, Catholic, Christian or Scientologist, we’re all here to make a better community and improve the outcome of each other’s lives. But the fact is, the Church of Scientology has taken on a leadership role among our Churches. You’ve been pivotal in unifying a faith-based movement that is offering and supporting alternative solutions. And you’ve done it in collaboration with every Valley Police Division. You are not only forging a public trust, but you are safeguarding our future. And that’s what I call: ‘living the faith.’”

The Los Angeles Fire Department has enjoyed a decades long partnership with the Scientology Volunteer Ministers in disaster preparedness and disaster response. They have collaborated with Hollywood and Valley fire stations in carrying out small-scale classes with local response volunteers and even exercises for large-scale disasters.

“I know your tenets are based on a core philosophy of helping others and that extends to your level of preparedness,” said Deputy Chief Richmond. “As a non-governmental group you are especially vigilant to disaster preparedness and crisis management. The community can depend on you, and that’s a big, big deal. In fact, it’s your biggest asset.”

Deputy Chief Richmond also touched upon his experience of first working with Scientology Volunteer Ministers at the site of the Northridge Earthquake. “You were there attending to victims and organizing supply lines. You brought vital resources including over forty truckloads of rations and ten tons of provisions. And day after day, week after week, for more than 10,000 volunteer hours, you committed yourselves to the city and our people. And for that, Los Angeles is thankful for the Church of Scientology.”

The dignitaries on hand stressed the importance of the Valley Church as an invaluable community partner, one that can always be relied upon.

To that end, Ms. Barrientos, illustrated the imprint that L. Ron Hubbard’s Study Technology has left on her work with migrant families. LA County has over 200,000 migrant kids and so in tandem with Valley Scientologists, she has helped implement study tools to give these children a second chance.

“With your Learning How to Learn, parents suddenly had a way to honestly help their kids. I remember one young girl who was failing her classes,” she told the crowd. “After just four weeks of tutoring, she was among the best in her grade. It’s impossible to forget her mother’s tears when she saw how such a simple, powerful tool had opened a new world of opportunity for her daughter. Yes, time and again you have turned lives destined for failure into bright, hopeful futures.”

The Church of Scientology of the Valley has also sponsored a Christmas celebration for the migrant children over the past seven years, and Ms. Barrientos recounted the impact such an experience can have on even one life. “I still remember one young girl whose father was unemployed. I asked her what she wanted for Christmas and she said, ‘This year I think all I want is some beans and tortillas.’ She knew her parents didn’t have money for anything else. So when that little girl saw her presents from your Church, well, she lit up the room.”

Bishop Harris has worked with the Valley Church and its parishioners in distributing L. Ron Hubbard’s The Way to Happiness across the streets and avenues of his community, and even from the pulpit of his Church. “This book is full of everyday miracles,” he said. “And if you want the living proof? Since I started with The Way to Happiness, we haven’t had a homicide in our communities for more than three years.”

But perhaps best encapsulating the spirit of the day, the Bishop declared, “The world today is in need of serious resurrection. And in the face of that, Scientologists do it all on a grand scale. You’ve made up your mind that ‘we’re going to do this ‘til all hell freezes over, and even then, we’re going to do it on ice.’”

The new Church provides visitors with an introduction to Dianetics and Scientology, beginning with the Public Information Center. Its displays, containing more than 500 films, present the beliefs and practices of the Scientology religion and the life and legacy of Founder L. Ron Hubbard.

The Information Center also details the many humanitarian programs that Scientology supports. They include a worldwide human rights education initiative; a far-reaching drug education, prevention and rehabilitation program; a global network of literacy and learning centers, and the Scientology Volunteer Minister program, which has become the world’s largest independent relief force.

The massive Chapel of the Valley’s new Church of Scientology seats more than 1,000 and provides for Scientology congregational gatherings that include Sunday Services, Weddings and Naming Ceremonies. It will also host community-wide events, open to members of all denominations. The facility further includes multiple seminar rooms and classrooms, and an entire wing dedicated to Scientology auditing (spiritual counseling).

The Valley Church is the most recent in a period of explosive growth for the Scientology religion over the past 12 months. The National Church of Scientology for New Zealand in Auckland opened its doors in January of this year and more are on the way, with grand openings planned for cultural crossroads in North America, Europe, the United Kingdom and Africa.