Latest news with #Scientologists
Daily Mail
a day ago
- Daily Mail
Top Aussie Scientologist is found dead after devoting her life to the mysterious religion - as details of her incredible link to its leader and her tragic cause of death are revealed
An Australian woman who was run out of Melbourne as a child due to her family's Scientology beliefs has died in Florida. Marion Pouw, 72, died near the Scientology city of Clearwater where she spent much of her life dedicated to the controversial religion and its leader, David Miscavige. Former friends - who say they were cut off from her after they left the church - revealed she had died from pancreatic cancer. Pouw was said to be Miscavige's right-hand woman, with some former Scientologists branding her his 'henchman', while another said she was one of his 'closest lieutenants'. A never-before-seen picture exclusively given to Daily Mail Australia reveals Pouw at her first wedding, with Miscavige's wife, Shelly, one of her bridesmaids. Ms Miscavige inexplicably vanished 18 years ago and has never been found. A death notice listed by Tampa funeral home Brewer & Sons shared that Ms Pouw was born on February 7, 1953, and died on June 20, 2025. The listing has since been mysteriously deleted, but still appears online in a Google search. An obituary on US website Echovita revealed that Ms Pouw died in Clermont, Florida, just a stone's throw from Scientology's Clearwater headquarters. The obituary farewelled her 'Earthly form'. Scientology's core belief is that humans are immortal spiritual beings, called thetans, who are in a continual cycle of reincarnation on Earth and other planets. Ms Pouw's work for the church flew mostly under the radar, but she appeared in a Scientology video slamming David's father, the late Ron Miscavige, for leaving the church and writing a memoir about it. Ms Pouw said she had helped Ron at his lowest point when his brother Red died, and that they were close family friends for more than 40 years. In his book Ruthless: Scientology, My Son David Miscavige, and Me, Ron described Pouw as his son's henchman, which infuriated her. 'I find the fact that he references me as a 'top henchman' both offensive and insulting,' she said in the video which was posted online and revealed a lingering trace of her Australian accent. 'I mean we're talking a 40 year relationship… a close family friend that's gone out of her way for… and cared for him. 'And to now depict that relationship in that manner - a friend doesn't say that about a friend, ever. No matter the circumstances, you just don't say that. 'And I find it very insulting and such a gross misrepresentation of the relationship that… that I had with him. 'He was a friend - he's not a friend now - but he was a very close friend. I was family. And frankly, I was stunned.' Ron Miscavige died in 2021, aged 85. Pouw and her siblings were raised by Dutch parents in Melbourne, but the family fled to the church's UK HQ in Saint Hill after a 1965 government investigation into the religion, which stifled its activities in Victoria at the time. She was raised alongside fellow Australian Scientology children, Terri, Janis and Peter Gillham. According to Janis and fellow former Scientologist Mike Fisher, who co-host Scientology - Peeling The Onion, a YouTube series on life outside of the church, Marion spent her 'entire life' in the organisation's shadowy pseudo-navy, Sea Org. Janis said Pouw's family left Scientology when she was a teenager, but as soon as she turned 17, she returned and signed up for Sea Org, an 'elite' subsection of the religion that spent much of its time at sea. Pouw rapidly ascended the ranks, and became an assistant for Mary Sue Hubbard - the wife of Scientology founder, L Ron Hubbard. It's understood she was incredibly close to the Scientology boss, especially in his latter years before his death in 1986. Her unwavering loyalty then switched to his successor, Miscavige. They were so close that Miscavige's wife Shelly was a bridesmaid in Pouw's wedding to fellow Scientologist, Bill Meisner. Shelly has been a subject of global fascination since vanishing in 2007. Actress and former Scientologist Leah Remini has been tireless in her quest to find Shelly, but Pouw never publicly commented on her friend's disappearance. Janis, who left the church in 1990, was devastated that her friend and Aussie compatriot had died without ever getting to reconnect with her. She exclusively shared pictures of Marion with Daily Mail Australia. 'She had a dedication and drive to had a goodness about her that got buried,' Janis said. Her YouTube co-host Mike Fisher countered Janis' kind words by saying, 'But she chose that [the church] over her family and her friends that she'd known for years'. Janis added: 'The sad part is she didn't go back to Holland to see her mum and dad. 'When her father passed away, he didn't tell Marion [that he was dying]. His thoughts were that, 'She didn't care enough about me when I was alive, why would she care that I'm dead?' 'They missed so many years with her, so there is that big hole.' Janis, who now lives in Las Vegas, Nevada, recalled Pouw lecturing her father Peter Gillham Sr that he needed to 'Handle Janis and Peter Jr' after they left because they'd been 'speaking out against the church'. Marion, third from left, is seen with Janis and her sister Terri, and another woman Janis revealed her regret that Pouw did not come to see her, even if it was to apparently silence them. 'If Marion had come to see us, we would have turned her,' she said. She alleged Pouw had formed a crucial part of Scientology's defence of mass protests in the mid-2000s, which were sparked by an exposé from internet activists Anonymous. 'She would go around and rope people back in [to the church] for Miscavige,' she said. It is believed Pouw's mother Wilma is still alive, in her 90s, and living in the Netherlands. Janis' late mother Yvonne was the brains behind Scientology's world-famous Celebrity Center in Los Angeles. The church responded angrily to speculation about Ms Pouw's life and death when approached by Daily Mail Australia. 'How dare you use someone's death—someone who cannot respond—to spread lies,' said public affairs spokesman Karin Pouw, believed to be Marion's sister-in-law. 'Marion would be outraged to know her honorable name is being used to promote a bigoted agenda against the Church she served and the people she so deeply cared for. 'Marion stood for truth, compassion, and justice. That her name would be used to spread lies would violate everything she lived for and hurt those she truly loved. 'Marion is deeply missed and will long be remembered by her true friends who worked side by side with her day in and day out for five decades. 'We urge you to reconsider what you are doing. If you proceed, you will not only be spreading falsehoods—you will be participating in the willful defamation of someone who can no longer defend herself, but who is not without people willing to do so.
Malaysian Reserve
05-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Malaysian Reserve
Rhodesia Reborn: Zimbabwe Estate Receives a Hero's Welcome as New L. Ron Hubbard Landmark Site
HARARE, Zimbabwe, July 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The estate once known as 31 John Plagis Place, Salisbury, Rhodesia—named for its former owner, a decorated World War II flying ace—has once again earned its chapter in history. Located in Harare's Alexandra Park suburb, she is now dedicated as an L. Ron Hubbard Landmark Site, honoring the Scientology Founder, who arrived here in the mid-1960s with a vision destined to echo far beyond Southern Africa. The nation is now called Zimbabwe—a land where giraffes roam, elephants walk and lions still roar. And on this brilliant, blue-sky day, Scientologists, heritage specialists and local residents gathered to celebrate the generosity of spirit and purpose Mr. Hubbard brought to what he called 'a small jewel in the midst of a howling wilderness.' As the golden ceremonial ribbon fell, streamers flew and crowds toured a site brimming with meaning—now one of global significance for Scientologists everywhere. For here, as Mr. Hubbard himself wrote, 'The adventures were many.' That legacy lives on through a series of defining milestones achieved inside. Foremost among them: the legendary filmed Clearing Course lectures—mapping a path to spiritual freedom not just for this nation, but for all Mankind. And in that very same room, Mr. Hubbard delivered his only filmed interview, An Introduction to Scientology. As he advanced Scientology on behalf of humanity, Mr. Hubbard simultaneously took steps to uplift the country. Within days of his arrival here in 1966, he proffered a new Constitution, Bill of Rights and Penal Code—calling for one man, one vote, regardless of race, color or creed. His Alexandra Park address soon became a meeting ground for ministers, cultural figures and diplomats—gathering for what Rhodesians called 'Sundowners,' graceful evening soirees with drinks and conversation. And through it all, Mr. Hubbard was remembered by his staff for the kindness and fairness he brought to every exchange. Today, this British-Colonial site stands meticulously restored—just as it was during Mr. Hubbard's time. Wallpaper, cabinetry and light fixtures have been matched to archival photographs. Artwork has been recovered. The same typewriters Mr. Hubbard provided his team of typists are faithfully preserved. Among other artifacts on display are the suit he wore while filming his legendary Clearing Course lectures, and even the suitcase he used on his return to England. Outside, the pool is restored to its classic shape and turquoise color. But it's the stone fireplace inside that may be most breathtaking—both for its beauty and its remarkable journey. A later owner had dismantled it, repurposing the stones into a garden wall. Now they have been recovered by restoration experts, cleaned by hand and dutifully returned to their original, exquisite form—warm observers to countless stories, ready to reveal those moments to all who visit this landmark. 'What we celebrate today speaks to the power of community and the far-reaching impact of L. Ron Hubbard's legacy on people from every station in life,' said the Church of Scientology Preservationist, who officiated the opening and oversaw the site's historical restoration. 'Your presence transforms this day into something truly special … because this building now stands as a place where you can walk in the very footsteps of L. Ron Hubbard.' That was the moment leaders from across Zimbabwe took the podium to pay tribute and speak to Mr. Hubbard's lasting significance. First among them was Ms. Liza Zindoga, President-Elect of the Harare Rotary Club. She recalled that Mr. Hubbard addressed a local branch 59 years ago. 'He spoke not about politics, but about building a new civilization—of lifting barriers to travel, opportunity and prosperity… And they televised his speech across the country. Mr. Hubbard gave us a glimpse of how great this nation could be—a road map to a better Zimbabwe,' she said. 'L. Ron Hubbard is a remarkable man, and the wheels he set in motion still turn today. Our role is clear: to guarantee that what was once shared with a room full of Rotarians now reaches every Zimbabwean who dreams of a better tomorrow.' Mr. Frans de Klerk, who served as the architect for the landmark's exacting renewal, said that 'when we first stepped onto the site, we saw the chance to revive something that mattered. If ever there was a passion project, this was it. I still remember our team's three-hour drive on sunbaked dirt roads to find the one quarry with the right slate. The heat was relentless, the road nearly undriveable, but the match was perfect—just as Mr. Hubbard would have seen it,' he said. 'Together, across borders and languages, we brought this site back to life. It's a root in the ground—deep, enduring and unmistakably yours.' Mr. Attwell Mamvuto, Pro-Vice Chancellor at the University of Zimbabwe, acknowledged the timeless influence of L. Ron Hubbard's presence in the country. 'This heritage site is a strong voice—and if you listen closely, it continues to call to the conscience of this nation. At a time when our land was torn between what it was and what it could be, Mr. Hubbard set to work—not with protest, but with pen,' he said. 'His Constitution and Bill of Rights were a gift … and a message that still talks to us. It says: 'We the people of this nation guarantee definite rights under law.' Those were his words—and they are still ours to uphold.' Bishop Albert Chikuni, President of the Interreligious Association for Peace and Development Zimbabwe, who serves 40 congregations across the region, reflected how 'L. Ron Hubbard did not come to enrich himself—but to enrich others…. We've seen what occurs when people are divided—by politics, by religion, by class. But we've also seen the strength that comes from unity—when differences are set aside in pursuit of a shared future. That is the work of peace,' he said. 'Today we honor the imprint Mr. Hubbard left here at Alexandra Park. If we carry forward his teachings, and the wisdom within these walls, I believe we can create a heaven on Earth.' Alexandra Park stands as the second L. Ron Hubbard Landmark Site in Southern Africa. The first, his Linksfield Ridge estate overlooking Johannesburg, South Africa, opened in 2005. All told, there are now nine such Landmark Sites across three continents. These include Bay Head, New Jersey, where Mr. Hubbard wrote Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health—the bestselling book ever on the human mind; and Elizabeth, New Jersey, where he formed the first Dianetics Foundation. Also among the sites is the Founding Church of Scientology that Mr. Hubbard established in Washington, DC; the original Hubbard Communications Office on Fitzroy Street in London, England; and the landmark at the base of Camelback Mountain in Phoenix, Arizona—known as the Birthplace of Scientology. Just two miles from that Phoenix location is yet another site, opened last month, at 4451 East Osborn Road, where he authored Dianetics 55!, and from where he commenced the unification of Dianetics and Scientology. And finally, his Worldwide headquarters at Saint Hill in East Grinstead, England. Each Landmark Site offers a literal and visual history of the work and advances Mr. Hubbard achieved during the time he was at that particular location. Every site also features a room devoted to the broader story of his global exploration and research—including the pivotal achievements made here at Alexandra Park. Together, these sites trace Mr. Hubbard's progressive steps to the founding of Dianetics and Scientology. With future Landmark Sites on the horizon, Scientologists the world over will have even more opportunities to walk in Mr. Hubbard's footsteps—his legacy preserved in space, alive in time and destined to inspire for generations to come.
Yahoo
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Freedom Flourishes in Dutch Capital On Destination: Scientology, Amsterdam
LOS ANGELES, June 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Scientology Network's DESTINATION: SCIENTOLOGY, the weekly travelogue series that takes viewers inside Scientology Churches all around the world and discovers what makes each one unique, presents an episode featuring Amsterdam, the Netherlands, premiering on June 23, 2025. DESTINATION: SCIENTOLOGY airs Mondays at 9 p.m. ET/PT on Scientology Network. ABOUT DESTINATION: SCIENTOLOGY, AMSTERDAM A world-class capital and icon of culture and tolerance, Amsterdam has long been a beacon for free thinkers, innovators and artists. From building the world's first stock market to reclaiming land from the sea, the city is a testament to human ingenuity and bold ideas. It's a place where knowledge grows and a rich artistic heritage remains, reflected in masterpieces by Rembrandt and Van Gogh and celebrated through the city's vibrant cultural institutions. Located on the Knowledge Mile near the iconic Rembrandt Tower, the Church of Scientology Amsterdam stands prominently along one of the city's most dynamic thoroughfares. This episode takes viewers inside the Church, offering a look at its role in a metropolis that has always celebrated individual thought. The episode also showcases Dutch traditions, from historic windmills and handcrafted wooden clogs to local cuisine and distinctive architecture. Hear from local Scientologists as they share their vision for Amsterdam's future—one of unity, dialogue and mutual respect—while showing how the Church helps guide the community toward their own paths to spiritual freedom. The Scientology Network debuted on March 12, 2018. Since launching, the Scientology Network has been viewed in over 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages. Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists; showing the Church as a global organization; and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross section of cultures and faiths but share a common purpose of uplifting communities. Scientology Network's innovative content has been recognized with more than 125 industry awards, including Tellys, Communitas and Hermes Creative Awards. Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and can be streamed at on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Church of Scientology International Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Associated Press
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Voices For Humanity Sparks Transformation in Liberty City with Pastor Jeffrey Mack
LOS ANGELES, Calif., June 12, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Scientology Network's VOICES FOR HUMANITY, the weekly series presenting heroic change makers from a variety of faiths, cultures and nations, working to uplift their communities, announces a new episode featuring community activist Pastor Jeffrey Mack. VOICES FOR HUMANITY airs Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Scientology Network. Liberty City, a Miami neighborhood marked by decades of violence, now faces a homicide rate nine times the national average. Leading the effort to turn the crisis around is Pastor Jeffrey Mack, whose 'One Brother, One Hood' approach is planting the seeds of tolerance and unity in the community. ABOUT PASTOR JEFFREY MACK As a teen, Pastor Jeffrey Mack saw firsthand the violence that had long devastated his community. After college, he entered the ministry and returned home, determined to be part of the solution. Introduced to The Way to Happiness, a common sense guide to better living, he made its 21 precepts central to his mission. Today, he's leading programs that empower residents and spark transformation. His work led to a partnership with the Miami-Dade Police Department, creating a first-of-its-kind training program that equips future officers with the principles of The Way to Happiness to better protect and serve the community. His efforts have helped drive the city's homicide rate to its lowest point in recorded history. Pastor Jeffrey Mack is President of the Circle of Brotherhood, a nonprofit guided by the motto: 'Black men solving our own community problems.' Scientology Network debuted on March 12, 2018, launched by David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion. Since then, Scientology Network has been viewed in over 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages. Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization and presenting its Social Betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by Independent filmmakers who represent a cross section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities. Scientology Network's innovative content has been recognized with more than 125 industry awards, including Tellys, Communitas and Hermes Creative Awards. Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM and AT&T U-verse and can be streamed at on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms. Learn more: MULTIMEDIA: Image link for media: Image caption: Pastor Jeffrey Mack's 'One Brother, One Hood' approach is planting the seeds of tolerance and unity in the community. NEWS SOURCE: Church of Scientology International Keywords: Religion and Churches, Pastor Jeffrey Mack, Circle of Brotherhood, Scientology Network, VOICES FOR HUMANITY, LOS ANGELES, Calif. This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Church of Scientology International) who is solely responsibile for its accuracy, by Send2Press® Newswire. Information is believed accurate but not guaranteed. Story ID: S2P126910 APNF0325A To view the original version, visit: © 2025 Send2Press® Newswire, a press release distribution service, Calif., USA. RIGHTS GRANTED FOR REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART BY ANY LEGITIMATE MEDIA OUTLET - SUCH AS NEWSPAPER, BROADCAST OR TRADE PERIODICAL. MAY NOT BE USED ON ANY NON-MEDIA WEBSITE PROMOTING PR OR MARKETING SERVICES OR CONTENT DEVELOPMENT. Disclaimer: This press release content was not created by nor issued by the Associated Press (AP). Content below is unrelated to this news story.
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Meet A Scientologist Imagines the Future with Artist and Visionary Trish Duggan
LOS ANGELES, June 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Scientology Network's MEET A SCIENTOLOGIST, the weekly series spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists from around the world and all walks of life, announces an episode featuring acclaimed artist, philanthropist and humanitarian Trish Duggan. MEET A SCIENTOLOGIST airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Scientology Network. Driven by a passion for the power of imagination, Trish Duggan is redefining how we see the world through art and shaping a more inspired future through her vision. As an artist, philanthropist and founder of the Imagine Museum, she inspires and uplifts humanity to new heights, guided by creativity and compassion. ABOUT TRISH DUGGAN Trish Duggan's artistic path began in high school when she was introduced to the traditional Japanese art form of woodblock printing. Though life led her to focus on raising a family and building several successful businesses, her creative spirit remained. A turning point came when she encountered the luminous beauty of glass art. Immediately, she immersed herself in mastering the craft and pushing its boundaries through constant creation—helping redefine what we know as contemporary glass art. As founder of the Imagine Museum, she plays a vital role in promoting emerging and established glass artists from around the world, using the platform to also advocate for human rights alongside artistic excellence. _____________ Scientology Network debuted on March 12, 2018, launched by David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion. Since then, Scientology Network has been viewed in over 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages. Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization and presenting its Social Betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by Independent filmmakers who represent a cross section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities. Scientology Network's innovative content has been recognized with more than 125 industry awards, including Tellys, Communitas and Hermes Creative Awards. Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM and AT&T U-verse and can be streamed at on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Church of Scientology International Sign in to access your portfolio
