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Associated Press
13 hours ago
- General
- Associated Press
Montrose Celebrates Opening of New Ideal Scientology Mission of the Foothills
MONTROSE, Calif., June 25, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — At the epicenter of the largest population of Scientologists on Earth – and already renowned for its humanitarian outreach – a transformed Mission rises to serve this Crescenta Valley enclave with even greater power and purpose. Nestled beneath Los Angeles' majestic Verdugo Mountains, the newly transformed Ideal Church of Scientology Mission of the Foothills opened its doors to the community on June 22, following a dedication ceremony attended by hundreds of parishioners, civic leaders and humanitarian partners from across Southern California. Scientology Missions form the vanguard of the Scientology religion, providing the full array of basic and introductory Scientology services and Scientology auditing (spiritual counseling). The Ideal Scientology Mission of the Foothills is designed to serve as the physical embodiment of Scientology Technology in helping all to attain spiritual freedom. Mission Executive Director Stacy Kitchens welcomed all those joining for the momentous occasion. 'Our Mission was established over 40 years ago with the goal to uplift and enrich the Foothills community, using the tools of Scientology,' she said. 'We serve as a central point from which to emanate L. Ron Hubbard's solutions for drug rehabilitation, drug prevention and campaigns to salvage every sector of society. All of this comes under the heading and responsibility of a Scientology Mission. And we now open our doors to expand our help to the community.' The Church of Scientology's ongoing commitment to community service has fostered strong partnerships throughout the region. That was evidenced by the presence of numerous dignitaries commemorating the occasion and offering speeches and accolades during the celebration. Ms. Susana Porras, Community Organizer for the City of Pasadena, spoke of how, over the course of some 20 years of service, she has witnessed Scientologists demonstrate commitment to community across every sector—from drug prevention to disaster response. 'The humanitarian campaigns sponsored by the Church are second to none,' she said. 'The opening of this Ideal Scientology Mission of the Foothills is now one more example of this organization doing something that needs to be done. It's one more example of community partnership and of us working together to fulfill the same mission of creating a beautiful, healthy and sustainable society.' Ms. Molly Burke, Executive Director of the Montrose-Verdugo City Chamber of Commerce and a lifelong Montrose local, echoed that sentiment as she shared her experience working alongside the Church and its members. 'The Church of Scientology continually shows up for Montrose in ways big and small—organizing toy drives that bring joy to local children, volunteering your time and energy at community events like the Chamber's biggest event, Oktoberfest, and organizing street cleanups to keep our city beautiful. Your commitment to service is inspiring. You step up without needing to be asked. This community is not only lucky to have you in it, we are better because you are here.' Mr. Emlyn Thomas, a volunteer leader of Operation BBQ Relief whose charity serves up to 50,000 meals a day in disaster zones, spoke of partnering with Scientology Volunteer Ministers during the California wildfires. 'Every person I met from Scientology was calm, prepared and composed. They were on a mission to get the job done. I look forward to standing shoulder to shoulder with them at any disaster site. So, from the bottom of my heart—thank you. Thank you for standing up, for being ready, and for building something that makes a real difference.' Visitors to the Foothills Mission are welcome to tour the Public Information Display, featuring multimedia presentations of the basic beliefs and practices of Dianetics and Scientology as well as the life and legacy of Founder L. Ron Hubbard. As an Ideal Church of Scientology Mission, Foothills is equipped with every facility needed to provide the full array of introductory Scientology services. These include the popular Life Improvement Courses through which anyone may find workable solutions to common challenges of everyday life—such as how to improve a marriage, successfully raise children, increase personal motivation, and set and achieve goals. The new Mission also offers seminars on a wide range of topics, including personal efficiency. The Hubbard Dianetics Seminar is based on Mr. Hubbard's watershed work Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health, the bestselling book that reveals the source of one's nightmares, unreasonable fears and irrational behavior—the reactive mind—and how to conquer it. Additionally, the Mission provides spiritual counseling, known as auditing, and the Purification Program, developed by Mr. Hubbard to free individuals from the mental and spiritual damage caused by drugs and toxins. Further Ideal Scientology Missions are planned across the globe in the coming months. The Scientology religion was founded by author and philosopher L. Ron Hubbard. The first Church of Scientology was formed in Los Angeles in 1954 and the religion has expanded to more than 11,000 Churches, Missions and affiliated groups, with millions of members in 170 countries. For three decades, Mr. David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, has protected, preserved and expanded Scientology worldwide. CONTACT: Church of Scientology Media Relations [email protected] (323) 960-3500 phone (323) 960-3508 fax MULTIMEDIA: PHOTO link for media: PHOTO CAPTION: The Church of Scientology Mission of the Foothills unveils its Ideal Mission in Montrose, California, on June 22, 2025, marking over 40 years of community service with a Grand Opening attended by parishioners, volunteers and civic leaders. NEWS SOURCE: Church of Scientology International Keywords: New Locations and Growth, Ideal Church of Scientology Mission, Foothills, Operation BBQ Relief, City of Pasadena, MONTROSE, 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: S2P127203 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.
Associated Press
2 days ago
- General
- Associated Press
Scientology Mission of the Foothills Unveils Ideal Mission in Montrose, CA, Celebrating 40+ Years of Community Impact
MONTROSE, Calif., June 24, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — On a radiant Sunday evening, the Church of Scientology Mission of the Foothills marked a historic milestone with the grand opening of their Ideal Scientology Mission in Montrose, California. After more than 40 years of dedicated service to the community, the Mission has elevated its commitment to the Foothills area by achieving Ideal status, symbolizing a new era of expansion and community impact. Nestled in the heart of Montrose, a community known for its small-town charm despite its proximity to the bustling city of Los Angeles, the Mission has long been a cornerstone for both the Scientology community and the public at large. It serves as a welcoming hub for individuals seeking personal growth and community solutions. A Legacy of Service and Community Enrichment Stacy Kitchens, Executive Director of the Church of Scientology Mission of the Foothills, addressed attendees at the grand opening, reflecting on the Mission's enduring purpose. 'Our mission was established over 40 years ago with the goal of uplifting and enriching the Foothills community using the tools of Scientology,' Kitchens said. 'The most common statement about this Mission is that it feels like home—not just for local parishioners, but for anyone who crosses our threshold. We serve as a central point from which to share L. Ron Hubbard's solutions for drug rehabilitation, drug prevention, and campaigns to improve every sector of society.' Community Leaders Celebrate a Shared Vision The grand opening was graced by prominent community leaders who highlighted the Mission's longstanding partnerships and contributions. Susana Porras, Community Organizer for the City of Pasadena, praised the collaborative spirit of the Scientology volunteers. 'The opening of this Ideal Scientology Mission of the Foothills is yet another example of this organization doing what needs to be done,' Porras stated. 'It's one more example of community partnership and of us working together to create a beautiful, healthy, and sustainable society.' Molly Burke from the Montrose Chamber of Commerce also commended the Mission's enduring presence. 'This Church has been here for forty-two years, and that is no small feat,' Burke remarked. 'This milestone is a true testament to your dedication, resilience, and the positive impact you've made in our community.' A Partner in Times of Crisis The event also highlighted the Mission's impactful work during times of crisis. Emlyn Thomas from Operation BBQ Relief, a charitable organization that partnered with the Scientology Volunteer Ministers during the devastating LA Fires, shared his firsthand experience. The two groups worked side by side to serve meals to first responders for days on end. 'At disaster sites, many volunteer organizations come together to provide what people need,' Thomas said. 'During our deployment here in California after the terrible fires, I first met the yellow shirts—the Scientology Volunteer Ministers. I saw what they were doing—handing out supplies, listening to people, helping families reconnect. Every person I met from Scientology was calm, prepared, and composed. They were on a mission to get the job done. I was impressed and knew I would serve with these people again in a heartbeat.' A Future of Continued Impact The grand opening of the Ideal Church of Scientology Mission of the Foothills underscores a renewed commitment to serving the diverse needs of the community. With a focus on fostering personal development, community betterment, and disaster response, the Mission stands poised to continue its legacy of positive change for years to come. For more information about the Scientology Mission of the Foothills and its programs, please visit: Media Contact: Linda Weiland [email protected] About the Church of Scientology Mission of the Foothills: The Church of Scientology Mission of the Foothills has been a vital part of the Montrose community for over four decades, offering spiritual guidance, community programs, and humanitarian initiatives based on the teachings of L. Ron Hubbard. As an Ideal Mission, it aims to expand its reach and impact in the Foothills area and beyond. MULTIMEDIA: Image link for media: Photo Caption: 'Celebrating a New Era: The Church of Scientology Mission of the Foothills unveils its Ideal Mission in Montrose, CA, on June 22, 2025, marking over 40 years of community service with a grand opening attended by local leaders and volunteers.' NEWS SOURCE: Church of Scientology International Keywords: California Business, The Church of Scientology Mission of the Foothills, Montrose CA, Ideal Church, MONTROSE, 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: S2P127143 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.
