Scientology celebrates 45 years in Spain, promoting human rights, education, and religious freedom through nationwide programs and its MEJORA foundation.
Madrid, September 18, 2025 – Today Scientologists celebrate the 45th anniversary of the first legal incorporation of the Church of Scientology in Spain. This milestone commemorates nearly half a century of devotion to spiritual values, cultural enrichment, and humanitarian work, reflecting the Church’s enduring presence and positive impact in Spanish society.
A Historical Journey Rooted in Spain
The story of Scientology in Spain stretches back more than seventy years, to a time when its founder, L. Ron Hubbard, first set foot on Spanish soil.
In 1953, Mr Hubbard traveled through Spain, exploring Sitges, the narrow streets of Sevilla, and the rugged beauty of the Canary Islands among others. These early visits were more than a passing journey; they were moments of quiet reflection and exchange, where he shared ideas and began laying the spiritual foundations that would one day flourish into a global movement.
By 1967, Mr Hubbard’s vision had taken on a bold new form, as reminded by Prof. Francisco Díez de Velasco in his glossary of religions, with the creation of the Sea Organization, a religious order dedicated to expanding Scientology’s reach worldwide. From the decks of ships such as the Enchanter and the legendary Apollo, Spain’s harbors became gateways of connection and cooperation.
Las Palmas, Valencia, Cádiz, Ibiza, and Tenerife were not just stops on a map but living stages for cultural exchange. The Sea Organization’s presence was marked by both its spiritual mission and vibrant cultural activities, including the music of the Apollo Stars, a band formed by crew members whose concerts built bridges of goodwill wherever they performed, as reported by European Scientology representative in a scholarly article for specialized book published by Dykinson.
These early years wove together threads of exploration, faith, and community—seeds that would grow into today’s established Church of Scientology in Spain.
From Legal Recognition to National Growth
As Scientology’s presence grew, a pivotal moment came in 1980, when the Church achieved its first formal legal incorporation in Spain, as the Civil Association of Dianetics, the early book that started it all in Scientology. This provided the clarity and structure needed to expand its mission, offering Scientologists a recognized platform to serve both their parishioners and the broader society.
Over the following decades, the movement grew steadily, culminating in September 2004, when thousands gathered in central Madrid for the grand opening of the National Church of Scientology on Calle de Santa Catalina, a circa 5600 square meters, steps away from the Spanish Parliament, in testament to the openness and willingness of the church to do its part for a better society.
More than 6,000 attendees—including civic leaders, cultural figures, law enforcement, and members of the public—celebrated the opening of this striking facility, which became a beacon for spiritual life and humanitarian outreach.
At this historic event, Mr David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, addressed the congregation and the gathered crowd:
“Spain, and its people, held a very dear place in the heart of L. Ron Hubbard. If Spain was a land where our Founder lit a torch for freedom, it is also a land where you kept that torch alive.
Through the darkest days, overcoming insurmountable obstacles against overwhelming odds, you demonstrated in action the essence of these words of our Founder:
‘The old must give way to the new, falsehood must become exposed by truth, and truth, though fought, always in the end prevails.’”
This message of perseverance and truth continues to resonate as Scientology celebrates its 45-year legacy in Spain.
In 2011, the Church undertook a major renovation of its Madrid headquarters, expanding spaces for education, training, cultural events, and community gatherings. The renewed facility became a dynamic center dedicated to service, cooperation, and shared purpose.
Humanitarian Programs: Deepening Social Contribution
As the Church’s spiritual foundations strengthened, its commitment to social service and humanitarian action grew, as inherent in the Scientology teachings. What began as small, local initiatives evolved into a nationwide network of programs that bring education, relief, and hope to thousands.
Fighting Drug Abuse: Prevention and Rehabilitation
Drug abuse devastates families and communities. Through the Truth About Drugs campaign, Scientology volunteers travel across Spain distributing clear, factual materials about the dangers of drugs. In cities like Valencia, these outreach events have empowered young people and parents to make informed choices and break cycles of addiction before they start.
For those already struggling, the Church and its members support Narconon centers, which provide rehabilitation programs based on the methods developed by L. Ron Hubbard—helping individuals reclaim their lives and reintegrate into society.
Building Careers: Education, Literacy, and Ethical Values
Education is fundamental to progress. Through Applied Scholastics, teachers and parents receive tools to improve literacy and study techniques, helping students overcome barriers to learning.
In addition, El Camino a la Felicidad (The Way to Happiness)—a secular guidebook of 21 common-sense principles for ethical living—is widely distributed in schools, community centers, and correctional facilities, promoting values like honesty, respect, and integrity.
Championing Human Rights
Scientology places a strong emphasis on human rights education. Through Unidos por los Derechos Humanos (United for Human Rights), the Church sponsors workshops and public campaigns teaching the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. These efforts foster understanding, tolerance, and respect for diversity, reducing discrimination and social conflict.
Helping Hands: Charity and Community Support
Across Spain, Scientology volunteers engage in practical acts of compassion:
- Organizing food, clothing, and toy drives for families in need.
- Supporting blood donation campaigns for hospitals.
- Partnering with organizations like the Red Cross, the Army, and many others, to assist vulnerable groups, including children and the elderly.
These efforts reflect the Church’s ongoing mission to be a reliable source of help and kindness wherever it is most needed.
Recognition and Collaboration
In recent years, the Church of Scientology and its foundation—the Fundación para la Mejora de la Vida, la Cultura y la Sociedad (MEJORA)—have gained notable recognition for defending religious freedom and promoting pluralism.
Each year, the Religious Freedom Awards hosted at the Madrid headquarters bring together prominent jurists, academics, activists, and government officials. Attendees have included representatives from the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of the Presidency, Law Enforcement, Embassies, NGOs, and leading universities across Spain.
At the 2024 ceremony, the Deputy Director General of Religious Freedom was among the high-profile participants, underscoring the importance of these events in strengthening Spain’s democratic values of coexistence, tolerance, and human dignity. Furthermore, the Church and its foundation collaborate with state institutions like the Fundación Pluralismo y Convivencia, which promotes religious diversity and interfaith dialogue. These partnerships reinforce Spain’s evolving commitment to a society where freedom of belief is respected and celebrated.
About the Church of Scientology Spain
The Church of Scientology Spain operates from its national headquarters in Madrid and through regional centers and community programs across the country.
Its foundation, MEJORA, holds Special Consultative Status with the United Nations ECOSOC and leads projects in human rights, education, ethics, and cultural advancement, engaging with European institutions and global initiatives.
As Scientology celebrates 45 years in Spain, the Church and its foundation reaffirm their dedication to fostering understanding, defending religious freedom, and improving the quality of life for individuals and communities. From its early beginnings to its nationwide network of humanitarian programs, it continues to serve as a beacon of hope and cooperation, working toward a future where compassion, education, and respect for diversity are the foundation of a thriving and peaceful society.
Media Contact
Organization: European Office Church of Scientology for Public Affairs and Human Rights
Contact Person: Ivan Arjona
Website: https://www.scientologyeurope.org
Email: Send Email
Address:Boulevard de Waterloo 103
City: Brussels
State: Brussels
Country:Belgium
Release id:34120
