Church of Scientology Celebrates its 35th Anniversary in Nashville, Tennessee

The Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre in Nashville, Tennessee is preparing for its 35th anniversary celebration, which will take place in its home – the remodeled Fall School building on 8th Avenue South.

“We go all-out to celebrate our anniversary, but this year will be particularly special,” says Pastor of the church, Rev. Brian Fesler.

Director of Community Affairs, Julie Brinker, is organizing the affair: “Our aim is to give our parishioners and community guests a wonderful time. From live music, to authentic Nashville fare, this will be a night to remember.” Each year the black tie soiree brings its parishioners together with dignitaries and community leaders to rejoice in a year of growth and achievement. Attendees delight in an evening of fine dining, inspirational speeches and exuberant entertainment.

“There is certainly a lot to celebrate,” Fesler continues, “since our 2009 opening in the Fall School, our parishioners have been more active than ever in reaching out into the community with our social betterment programs.”

Among the church’s community initiatives are The Truth About Drugs, a campaign to enlighten youth and teens on the dangers of street drugs. Another is a human rights program which educates about the Universal Declaration of Human Rights signed into existence in 1948 just after World War II. Each of these campaigns has booklets for general distribution and enlightenment, along with public service announcements. “It’s all about education and improving the world we live in,” says Fesler.

Parishioners have gone straight to schools in Tennessee to teach kids about the dangers of drugs. They have visited more than 30 counties and delivered over 230 seminars. Fesler described the church’s involvement in the annual celebration of International Human Rights Day in Tennessee. “We work with agencies to put together the event, which includes an education portion about the Universal Declaration’s list of rights, speeches and an award ceremony for those who have demonstrated a life-long commitment to human rights.”

The church plans to have its private 35th anniversary celebration in May. Located at 1130 8th Avenue South, the church is open 9am-9pm Monday through Friday and 9am-6pm on the weekend for tours of its public information center. For more information, visit http://www.scientology-ccnashville.org.

Church of Scientology Nashville New Year’s Celebration Caps History-Defining Ten Years

Dozens gathered to celebrate the culmination of the greatest period of growth in Scientology history at the Church of Scientology Nashville on New Year’s Eve.

Scientologists assembled to celebrate a record-shattering decade with a  Golden Age for Scientology, more than 50 new Churches arising, publishing and multimedia facilities taking flight, and the launch of Scientology Network.

That’s just a glimpse of why the 2010s saw greater expansion for the Scientology religion than all previous decades combined.

“Yes, tonight we celebrate the fact we conquered time. Since, how else could anyone accomplish so much in ten fleeting years?” began Mr. David Miscavige, the ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion. “But, either way, our theme tonight is ‘Time.’ Time past, time present and what this decade signified in terms of a future that’s already preordained as glorious.”

In evidence of an unprecedented ten years for Scientology worldwide, Mr. Miscavige proceeded with a stunning visual presentation highlighting a parade of epic achievements. The complete visual presentation can be seen at www.scientology.org.

In the wake of new Church openings, the Church attained landmark victories and recognitions in multiple countries, including a watershed Supreme Court decision in the United Kingdom.

Further highlighting the end-of-decade celebration were presentations to honor L. Ron Hubbard’s technology in application across every sector of society in the name of a better world.

Association for Better Living and Education (ABLE), bringing to bear programs to counteract drug abuse, illiteracy, immorality and criminality.

Bringing the night to an inevitable climax were the Grand Opening presentations of the very newest Ideal Organizations for 2019, including:

The November 2 ribbon-cutting of the Church of Scientology Kansas City, in a fully restored, nationally registered Missouri landmark on 18th Street and Grand Boulevard in the city’s renowned Crossroads Arts District.

And the November 9 dedication of the Church of Scientology Central Ohio, in the state capital of Columbus and accessible to all on US Highway 33.

Whereupon, as thunderous applause reverberated in the packed-to-capacity Shrine Auditorium, the night’s celebration transcended to a tone of triumph. So it was, as the concluding moments of the Church’s most momentous decade drew near, Mr. Miscavige left one and all with a final word:

“With that, we arrive at the close of this evening’s event, and a moment to contemplate the next ten years. And the next, and the next and the next after that, until time runs its course and what L. Ron Hubbard told us is indeed fulfilled: That time is not behind us; it lies ahead in eternity; and we shall find ourselves in it, irrevocably. But either way, what is absolutely manifest destiny is all of us together for the next ten years. And in anticipation of which, I say: Happy New Year and Godspeed into eternity!”

For more information on Scientology, visit www.scientology.org.

United for Human Rights Holds Listening Session on Religious Landscape of Tennessee

Tennessee United for Human Rights brought in a special guest speaker for International Human Rights Day to share the landscape of religious freedom across the state, as part of a new series.

Tennessee United for Human Rights has just launched a new quarterly series: The Landscape of Human Rights in Tennessee. Each quarterly event will see a different focus that is intrinsic to basic human rights. The first, held recently for International Human Rights Day at the Church of Scientology Nashville, focused on religious freedom. A special guest speaker spoke about religious freedom across the state, discussed her upbringing and the formation of a group to help promote religious causes with community members.

“Religious freedom is such a basic human right, the very country we live in was founded on this principle,” says Julie Brinker, spokesperson for Tennessee United for Human Rights.

Human Rights day commemorates the United Nations adoption in 1948 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights--the world's premier human rights document. Despite the best intentions of those who crafted the Declaration, 68 years later, the UN points out, "disrespect for basic human rights continues to be widespread in all parts of the globe. Extremist movements subject people to horrific violence. Messages of intolerance and hatred prey on our fears. Humane values are under attack."

United for Human Rights is the world's largest nongovernmental human rights education campaign, active in 192 countries and partnering with 1,500 groups and organizations.  For more information, visit humanrights.com. 

Nashville Church of Scientology Holds Mandela Day Tribute

Part of an international movement spanning 192 countries, the Church of  Scientology Celebrity Centre Nashville is raising awareness of human rights in commemoration of Mandela Day.

The Nashville Church of Scientology held a special event to introduce young advocates to humanitarian Nelson Mandela during an inaugural event for the day. Children, along with others new to the subject, were shown a visual biography on Nelson Mandela to learn more about who he is and why he is considered a human and civil rights advocate. Attendees were invited to learn more about human rights through interactive visual displays and easy-to-assimilate materials.

This event also signified the conclusion of the Youth for Human Rights Summer Art Contest, with winners announced in four categories and prizes given to each. The winning artists included 11 year olds Norah and Jazzelyn, and 5 year olds Harper and Annalise.

The art contest inspired young people to learn more about human rights in order to create depictions for them, according to contest organizers. “It’s so important for people to learn at a young age what their human rights are,” says Rev. Brian Fesler, pastor of the Nashville Church of Scientology. “We live in a world where rights are being taken away by those seeking to oppress and this is made easier by the fact that people just don’t know what their rights are. Education is vital in this battle against ignorance and oppression.”

Nelson Mandela International Day is an annual international day in honor of Nelson Mandela, celebrated each year on 18 July, Mandela's birthday. The day was officially declared by the United Nations in November 2009, with the first UN Mandela Day held on 18 July 2010.

The Mandela Day campaign message is: “Nelson Mandela has fought for social justice for 67 years. We're asking you to start with 67 minutes.”

Human rights are an integral part of the Scientology religion. The Creed of the Church of Scientology, written in 1954 by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, begins: "We of the Church believe: That all men of whatever race, color or creed were created with equal rights." And the Code of a Scientologist calls on all Scientologists "to support true humanitarian endeavors in the fields of human rights."

The Church of Scientology and Scientologists support United for Human Rights, the world's largest nongovernmental human rights education campaign, active in 192 countries and partnering with 1,500 groups and organizations.  The initiative is inspired by Mr. Hubbard's conviction that "It is vital that all thinking men urge upon their governments sweeping reforms in the field of human rights."

Church of Scientology Nashville to Celebrate 34th Anniversary

The Church of Scientology is preparing to celebrate its 34^th year in Nashville, TN. 

The Nashville Church of Scientology will celebrate its 34^th anniversary with a private event at the end of April. Rev. Brian Fesler, pastor of the Church, says, “We’ve been in Nashville for 34 years, and ten in the historic Fall School building. We are celebrating our progress as well as the spirit of Nashville.”

On a global scale, the Church of Scientology has enjoyed greater expansion during the past decade than in the previous 50 years combined. All the while the Church’s ever-growing humanitarian programs in the fields of drug education, human rights, morals education and disaster relief have positively impacted hundreds of millions of lives.

In Nashville, the Church has seen thousands of people entering its doors for the first time over the last ten years. On a humanitarian mission, the Church has participated in numerous human rights awareness events and helped create such events as Human Rights Day and the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. march and convocation.  Church members, volunteering in the area of drug education, have delivered more than 230 seminars in Tennessee and have distributed more than 60,000 booklets.

“Scientology is an active religion, where one seeks to know life and help people," says Fesler, "and we have the tools to accomplish that. We don’t ask our members to believe, we want them to act.” To learn more about the Church of Scientology, its programs and courses, visit www.scientology.org.  

International Human Rights Day Celebrated in Tennessee

The Tennessee Celebration of International Human Rights Day took place in Nashville at the First Amendment Center in early December.  

International Human Rights Day occurs every year to commemorate the ratification of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations, some seventy years ago, on Dec 10, 1948. In Tennessee, the Human Rights Day celebration has become a time to reflect and look to the future. During the annual event, people are honored that have given a lifetime of service to making human rights a reality, those who have demonstrated outstanding service to forward human rights and those who are picking up the torch and carrying it forward.

Tennessee celebrated Human Rights Day this year on December 11 in Nashville with a moving and memorable event at the John Seigenthaler Center. The theme for 2018 was chosen to align with the United Nations’ theme and was ‘Born Free & Equal? The Timeline of Justice in Nashville.’ This was showcased through segments on the past, present and future of human rights for Nashville with an audio recording from lifetime human rights advocate, Rev. Bill Barnes (1931-2017), a panel discussion of current human rights issues in the city, and a performance of encouragement by musical artist Wyte T Breezy.

Awards were presented for lifetime achievement and outstanding service in the field of human rights with video segments, along with recognition of rising advocates.

This year, four Rising Advocate Awards were given to those who have made great strides for human rights and show even greater promise for the future. They were Anne Barnett & Odessa Kelly, both with STAND UP Nashville, who were instrumental in making sure the ‘Do Better Bill’ passed earlier this year; Fayo Abadula, who co-founded Oromo Youth of Nashville, a mentorship group for the Oromo youth and anyone from the African Diaspora interested in pursuing a college degree; and the Community Oversight Now coalition which recently successfully got Amendment 1 passed which will create a Community Oversight Board for the police in Nashville, and has advocated for social justice and civil rights.

The award winners in the category of Outstanding Service are Dawn Deaner, who has served unselfishly as Nashville’s Executive Public Defender and stood strong against a criminal justice system fraught with injustice; and Tom Negri who has served on nearly 20 boards and action committees including the YWCA and Conexion Americas as well as taking a leading role on Nashville for All of Us, the initiative to defeat the ‘English Only’ bill.

Lifetime Achievement awards were presented to King Hollands, who fought for civil rights as a student of Fisk University during the Nashville sit-ins; and Dr. Blondell Strong Kimbrough, a lifelong advocate for civil rights and justice.

The program was co-organized by the Tennessee Human Rights Commission, the Metro Human Rights Commission, the United Nations Association, UNICEF USA, Amnesty International, Tennessee United for Human Rights and the Church of Scientology.  

Rev. Brian Fesler, pastor of the Church of Scientology, has been the event chair since 2011. He said, “Not only do you have to educate people about their rights, but you have to celebrate and honor those who are in the fight. The more people who join in to work for human rights for all, the closer we get to human rights being a reality for everyone.”

Fesler said that the Church of Scientology supports United for Human Rights, the world’s largest nongovernmental human rights educational campaign. For more information about United for Human Rights or programs supported by the Church of Scientology, visit www.scientology.org.

To find out more about the Tennessee Human Rights Day event, visit tnuhr.org. 

Tennessee United for Human Rights Educates the Next Generation

Part of an international movement, Tennessee United for Human Rights is raising awareness in commemoration of the 70^th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Tennessee United for Human Rights held two events to commemorate 70 years of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights this December. The first took place in early December and introduced young advocates to the subject of human rights.

This event included interactive visual displays on each of the human rights, easy-to-assimilate materials, and activities that gave young advocates a practical view of specific rights. Young people created art that demonstrated various human rights in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.  

Julie Brinker, event coordinator for Tennessee United for Human Rights, led the activities, “I’ve been involved with United for Human Rights since 2004, and I know that this program can help people across the globe by utilizing education to lift people up so they know their rights.” Brinker helped the young people understand what “human rights” means, then showed them the various human rights and asked them to begin demonstrating one of their rights through artistic activities.

Human Rights day commemorates the United Nations adoption in 1948 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights--the world's premier human rights document. Despite the best intentions of those who crafted the Declaration, 68 years later, the UN points out, "disrespect for basic human rights continues to be widespread in all parts of the globe. Extremist movements subject people to horrific violence. Messages of intolerance and hatred prey on our fears. Humane values are under attack."

United for Human Rights is the world's largest nongovernmental human rights education campaign, active in 192 countries and partnering with 1,500 groups and organizations.  For more information, visit humanrights.com.

Tennessee United for Human Rights Celebrates 70 Years of the Universal Declaration

Part of an international movement, Tennessee United for Human Rights is raising awareness in commemoration of the 70^th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Tennessee United for Human Rights will have two events to commemorate 70 years of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights this December. The first is December 8^th and will introduce young advocates to the subject of human rights, and the second is the annual celebration for Human Rights Day on December 11^th which honors and awards top leaders and advocates in Tennessee.

The first event will see interactive visual displays on each of the human rights, easy-to-assimilate materials, and activities that will give young advocates a practical view of specific rights. Youth will be creating art that demonstrates the various human rights in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.  For more information or to RSVP, visit the Facebook page for Tennessee United for Human Rights.

The second event takes place at the First Amendment Center and will see a slate of seven advocates and one coalition receive awards for outstanding service to forward human rights. Tickets are available for this event and can be found at tnuhr.org.

Human Rights day commemorates the United Nations adoption in 1948 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights--the world's premier human rights document. Despite the best intentions of those who crafted the Declaration, 68 years later, the UN points out, "disrespect for basic human rights continues to be widespread in all parts of the globe. Extremist movements subject people to horrific violence. Messages of intolerance and hatred prey on our fears. Humane values are under attack."

United for Human Rights is the world's largest nongovernmental human rights education campaign, active in 192 countries and partnering with 1,500 groups and organizations.  For more information, visit humanrights.com. 

Nashville Church of Scientology Presents An Introduction to Human Rights

Part of an international movement spanning 192 countries, the Church of  Scientology Celebrity Centre Nashville is raising awareness of human rights in commemoration of the 69^th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The Nashville Church of Scientology held a special program to introduce young people to their most basic human rights for International Human Rights Day this year.

Human Rights Day commemorates the United Nations adoption in 1948 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights--the world's premier human rights document. Despite the best intentions of those who crafted the Declaration, 69 years later, the UN points out, "disrespect for basic human rights continues to be widespread in all parts of the globe. Extremist movements subject people to horrific violence. Messages of intolerance and hatred prey on our fears. Humane values are under attack."

For this reason, Church pastor Rev. Brian Fesler brought together families with young children to learn about their human rights and the spirit of the day. “If we don’t educate the next generation on their rights, what kind of world will we be living in?” he says.

Human rights are an integral part of the Scientology religion. The Creed of the Church of Scientology, written in 1954 by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, begins: "We of the Church believe: That all men of whatever race, color or creed were created with equal rights." And the Code of a Scientologist calls on all Scientologists "to support true humanitarian endeavors in the fields of human rights."

The Church of Scientology and Scientologists support United for Human Rights, the world's largest nongovernmental human rights education campaign, active in 192 countries and partnering with 1,500 groups and organizations.  The initiative is inspired by Mr. Hubbard's conviction that "It is vital that all thinking men urge upon their governments sweeping reforms in the field of human rights."

For more information about the Church of Scientology or its programs, visit scientology.org. 

Nashville Church of Scientology Presents an Introduction to Human Rights

Part of an international movement spanning 192 countries, the Church of  Scientology Celebrity Centre Nashville is raising awareness of human rights in commemoration of the 69^th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The Nashville Church of Scientology is set to have a special event to introduce young advocates to the subject of human rights for International Human Rights Day this year.

Children, along with others new to the subject, will see interactive visual displays on each of the human rights, will read easy-to-assimilate materials, and will get the chance to put human rights into action with activities that will give them a practical view of specific rights.

Last year, the church worked with Tennessee United for Human Rights to produce a video of children each saying an abbreviated version of one of the human rights. This video was then shown during the Tennessee Celebration of International Human Rights Day, and is now online at tnuhr.org.

“It’s so important for people to learn at a young age what their human rights are,” says Rev. Brian Fesler, pastor of the Nashville Church of Scientology. “We live in a world where rights are being taken away by those seeking to oppress and this is made easier by the fact that people just don’t know what their rights are. Education is vital in this battle against ignorance and oppression.”

Human Rights day commemorates the United Nations adoption in 1948 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights--the world's premier human rights document. Despite the best intentions of those who crafted the Declaration, 68 years later, the UN points out, "disrespect for basic human rights continues to be widespread in all parts of the globe. Extremist movements subject people to horrific violence. Messages of intolerance and hatred prey on our fears. Humane values are under attack."

Human rights are an integral part of the Scientology religion. The Creed of the Church of Scientology, written in 1954 by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, begins: "We of the Church believe: That all men of whatever race, color or creed were created with equal rights." And the Code of a Scientologist calls on all Scientologists "to support true humanitarian endeavors in the fields of human rights."

The Church of Scientology and Scientologists support United for Human Rights, the world's largest nongovernmental human rights education campaign, active in 192 countries and partnering with 1,500 groups and organizations.  The initiative is inspired by Mr. Hubbard's conviction that "It is vital that all thinking men urge upon their governments sweeping reforms in the field of human rights."

Nashville Church of Scientology Celebrates 32nd Anniversary

The Church of Scientology held its 32^nd anniversary soiree celebration on April 22nd, 2017 with parishioners and friends from the community.

This past weekend, the Nashville Church of Scientology held a celebration of thirty-two years in Nashville.

Church pastor Rev. Brian Fesler began his speech for the evening with a message of hope, if we work hard in our own sector to make a difference, “The way you manage a global issue is, you team up with others from around the globe who want to handle it. You take responsibility for an area, and team up with others who are doing the same. Then you each clean up yourself, your community, your state, your region. And when you have reached the boundaries of your friends, and they have cleaned up to the borders of their friends, we will have peace and prosperity for all.”   

Community leaders spoke about the Church’s involvement in education initiatives for human rights and about the church’s commitment and involvement in the community.

Then, a special guest pastor from another church delivered a sermon on love, quoting parts of an article by Scientology Founder, L. Ron Hubbard, entitled ‘What is Greatness?’ which begins: “The hardest task one can have is to continue to love his fellows despite all reasons he should not.”  

On a global scale, the Church of Scientology has enjoyed greater expansion during the past decade than in the previous 50 years combined. All the while the Church’s ever-growing humanitarian programs have positively impacted hundreds of millions of lives.

In Nashville, the Church has seen thousands of people entering its doors for the first time since moving into the grand Fall School Building eight years ago. On a humanitarian mission, the Church has participated in numerous human rights awareness events and helped create such events as Human Rights Day and the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. march and convocation.  Church members, volunteering in the area of drug education, have delivered more than 230 seminars in schools in Tennessee and have distributed more than 50,000 booklets.

“Scientology is an active religion, where one seeks to know life and help people," says Rev. Fesler, "and we have the tools to accomplish that. We don’t ask our members to believe, we want them to act.”

To learn more about the Church of Scientology, its programs and courses, visit www.scientology.org.   

Inspirational Birthday Celebration Features Past, Present and Future Legacy of L. Ron Hubbard

To celebrate his March 13, 1911 birthday, each year Scientologists from sixty countries gather at the religion’s spiritual nexus in Clearwater, Florida in a weekend celebration of their founder’s life. This gathering and speeches is videoed, then re-shown in churches around the world the following weekend.

In Nashville, the Church members came together with guests and friends to see the many accomplishments and cast their eyes toward a limitless future, inspired by the life and works of L. Ron Hubbard.

LRH, as his multitudinous followers know him, was a polymath—a person of wide-ranging knowledge and education. Beginning as the youngest Eagle Scout in American history (awarded just days after his thirteenth birthday), LRH explored the religious landscape of Asia by the time he was fifteen. Mr. Hubbard went on to become the Guinness Book’s most translated author, and also holds their record for most audio books by one author.

His work toward the salvation of mankind continues to inspire millions worldwide. This annual weekend celebration displays by turns, his research into man as a spiritual being, his technical legacy that allows others to identify, explore and realize their innate spiritual abilities—all this L. Ron Hubbard left to a troubled world.

The evening presented not just a sense of L. Ron Hubbard’s influence on the lives of individuals, but also a surge of real-life stories on how he touched others… if only for just a little while, but ultimately changed the outcome of their destiny.

The night’s spotlight continuously shone on the size and scope of Scientology today, spirited by L. Ron Hubbard’s legacy. His legacy was exquisitely personified in the unveiling of the newest Ideal Organization (Org) in Auckland, New Zealand. The Kiwi congregation formed the second Church of Scientology in the world in 1955. Attendees next witnessed the moving grand opening ceremony with local luminaries heralding the moment as a sea of change for their island nation.

The evening was a celebration of a life well lived—a life lived for the benefit of all mankind, and a life lived to help individuals without hesitation. Birthdays are traditionally a time to acknowledge what a person has done and how they influence the lives of others. But as LRH is transcendent, his birthday celebration ultimately captured what his life and work will continue to mean for the future.

In all, it was a celebration in the name of helping people honor their own potential—of making a world that mankind desires, that he deserves.

Church of Scientology Makes Plans to Celebrate 32nd Anniversary in Nashville

The Nashville Church of Scientology will celebrate its 32^nd anniversary with a private event at the end of April. Rev. Brian Fesler, pastor of the Church, says, “We’ve been in Nashville for 32 years, and eight in the historic Fall School building. We are celebrating our progress as well as the spirit of Nashville.”

On a global scale, the Church of Scientology has enjoyed greater expansion during the past decade than in the previous 50 years combined. All the while the Church’s ever-growing humanitarian programs in the fields of drug education, human rights, morals education and disaster relief have positively impacted hundreds of millions of lives.

In Nashville, the Church has seen thousands of people entering its doors for the first time over the last eight years. On a humanitarian mission, the Church has participated in numerous human rights awareness events and helped create such events as Human Rights Day and the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. march and convocation.  Church members, volunteering in the area of drug education, have delivered more than 230 seminars in Tennessee and have distributed more than 60,000 booklets.

“Scientology is an active religion, where one seeks to know life and help people," says Fesler, "and we have the tools to accomplish that. We don’t ask our members to believe, we want them to act.” To learn more about the Church of Scientology, its programs and courses, visit www.scientology.org. 

Nashville Church of Scientology Celebrates the New Year 2017

Nashville’s Church of Scientology saw a whirlwind of activity during 2016. Parishioners will gather on New Year’s Eve to celebrate a year of accomplishments and look forward to the coming months.

The Nashville Church of Scientology has much to celebrate as 2016 comes to a close. Scientologists will look back on the time spent on programs aimed at drug reform, literacy, and improving morality across cultures, during a special celebration on New Year’s Eve.

The Nashville Church began the year as an organizing partner with other community leaders and pastors for the annual march and convocation for MLK Day. Next, the Church hosted an event to commemorate International Holocaust Remembrance Day while also revealing “the Men Behind Hitler.”

In the spring, the Church was happy to host a Survival Training workshop geared toward understanding how to prepare for and act in times of disaster with leading professionals on the subject; a Fitness Fair to help educate the community how to be healthy, happy and drug-free; an educational meeting on improving the environment; and a community gathering for International Friendship Day which had 60 guests of diverse faiths, cultures, and races all together overcoming stereotypes and other obstacles to friendship.

The church hosted a forty member group from Historic Nashville Inc., for a tour, as well as nearly thirty students from Middle Tennessee State University.

During summer, the church held an anniversary celebration for thirty-one years in Music City with a large-scale gala where community guests, parishioners and friends were able to recognize members’ achievements and look forward to the many years ahead. In September, the church held a forum on domestic violence for the International Day of Peace on the theme: Know Your Rights and Survive—Overcoming Domestic Violence, where local experts talked about the problem and things people can do to help victims. Also for International Day of Peace, Pastor of the Church, Rev. Brian Fesler, participated in an interfaith service at Fisk University to promote peace and dedicate a peace pole on Fisk campus.

Church members spent several months distributing copies of L. Ron Hubbard’s booklet The Way to Happiness, working with people who have been abused in the field of mental health, and promoting human rights messages across Middle Tennessee.

In October, church members held a series of events for Red Ribbon Week, a week meant to promote drug-free living. These events included booklet distributions of the Truth About Drugs booklet, educational seminars and one-on-one meetings to enlighten leaders on the materials.

In November, the Church hosted the annual Artlightenment art and film festival, which this year was themed “America: It’s Cultures and Influences.” In its eighth year, this was the most successful to date in terms of the attendance and number of artists participating, both locally and internationally.  The festival included a film festival, fashion show as well as having a plethora of fine art, painting and photography displays.

In December, the Church worked with local and state government agencies and non-profit organizations to plan the Tennessee Celebration of International Human Rights Day. During the celebration, human rights advocates were awarded for their service to the community.

Church pastor Rev. Brian Fesler said, "2016 was an amazing year. I’m extremely proud of the work our members are doing in and with the community. We are very excited about 2017, and will be expanding our programs exponentially in alignment with our mother Church’s international approach." For more information about Scientology, visit www.scientology-ccnashville.org.    

Nashville Church of Scientology Uplifts Youth for International Human Rights Day

Part of an international movement spanning 192 countries, the Church of  Scientology Celebrity Centre Nashville is raising awareness of human rights in commemoration of the 68^th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The Nashville Church of Scientology held a special presentation to acknowledge youth on International Human Rights Day, December 10^th, this year. Prior to the celebration, the church worked with Tennessee United for Human Rights to produce a video of children each saying an abbreviated version of one of the human rights. This video was then shown during the Tennessee Celebration of International Human Rights Day, which occurred this year on December 6^th at the First Amendment Center. This video was a hit at the event, and so, to acknowledge all of the children who participated, the Church of Scientology felt they should be thanked with a celebration of their own.

The children who participated in the video were from a wide variety of backgrounds, religions, races and creeds, but the message they forwarded was with one voice: you have a right to know your human rights.

During the celebration, the children were able to view the final video for the first time, hear more about how to get involved to help others know their rights through Youth for Human Rights, and share food and drinks with friends.

The video can be viewed here: http://nashvillehumanrights.org/.

Human Rights day commemorates the United Nations adoption in 1948 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights--the world's premier human rights document. Despite the best intentions of those who crafted the Declaration, 68 years later, the UN points out, "disrespect for basic human rights continues to be widespread in all parts of the globe. Extremist movements subject people to horrific violence. Messages of intolerance and hatred prey on our fears. Humane values are under attack."

Human rights are an integral part of the Scientology religion. The Creed of the Church of Scientology, written in 1954 by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, begins: "We of the Church believe: That all men of whatever race, color or creed were created with equal rights." And the Code of a Scientologist calls on all Scientologists "to support true humanitarian endeavors in the fields of human rights."

The Church of Scientology and Scientologists support United for Human Rights, the world's largest nongovernmental human rights education campaign, active in 192 countries and partnering with 1,500 groups and organizations.  The initiative is inspired by Mr. Hubbard's conviction that "It is vital that all thinking men urge upon their governments sweeping reforms in the field of human rights."

Tennessee Celebration of International Human Rights Day Will Bring Attention to Child Trafficking

The planning committee for the Tennessee celebration of International Human Rights Day has confirmed the theme for the event to raise awareness of child trafficking in the state.

The Tennessee Celebration of International Human Rights Day occurs on or around December 10 each year, as that is the recognized date for Human Rights Day, as declared by the United Nations. The planning committee for the celebration has just released the theme for the event: Hidden in our Midst—Child Trafficking in Tennessee. This provocative and eye-opening theme will be the focus of the panel discussion and other elements of the event according to planning committee chair, Rev. Brian Fesler who is also pastor of the Church of Scientology.

“Human Rights Day is always a time for human rights leaders to come together and inspire the next generation,” he says, “and this year we will shine a light on an atrocity that people need to know about and help address.”  Expert speakers will enlighten and educate the audience on the extent of the problem and solutions in Tennessee.

Other components to the event include the presentation of awards to human rights champions in three categories: Rising Advocate, Outstanding Service and Lifetime Achievement. The committee will begin accepting nominations for the 2016 event sometime in early October.

The committee is comprised of human rights organizations and nonprofits, including the Tennessee Human Rights Commission, Metro Human Relations Commission, United Nations Association, Amnesty International, Tennessee United for Human Rights, the Church of Scientology and others who work together each year to plan the event.

This year’s celebration will take place on December 6, from 5:00 – 7:00 pm at the First Amendment Center. For more information or to get involved, visit tnuhr.org.

Church of Scientology Celebrates 31 Years of Helping the Nashville Community

The Church of Scientology held its 31st anniversary soiree celebration on April 23rd, 2016 with parishioners and friends from the community.

The Nashville Church of Scientology held a celebration of the accomplishments it has seen over the past thirty-one years in the city.

Church pastor Rev. Brian Fesler said: “People are suffering. They’re in despair. Their lives are ruined. They’re the victims of all kinds of incredible circumstances. And they’re afraid things are going to get worse. This needs to change. And we can bring that change, but we have to demand improvement. We can’t just sit back and wait. Luckily there’s hope, because when you have an understanding of life, the spirit and the mind, that’s a very firm foundation.”

Community guests spoke about the Church’s involvement in education initiatives for human rights, drug prevention education, and helping kids with moral education using The Way to Happiness booklet. 

On a global scale, the Church of Scientology has enjoyed greater expansion during the past decade than in the previous 50 years combined. All the while the Church’s ever-growing humanitarian programs have positively impacted hundreds of millions of lives.

In Nashville, the Church has seen thousands of people entering its doors for the first time since moving into the grand Fall School Building seven years ago. On a humanitarian mission, the Church has participated in numerous human rights awareness events and helped create such events as Human Rights Day and the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. march and convocation.  Church members, volunteering in the area of drug education, have delivered more than 230 seminars in schools in Tennessee and have distributed more than 50,000 booklets.

“Scientology is an active religion, where one seeks to know life and help people," says Rev. Fesler, "and we have the tools to accomplish that. We don’t ask our members to believe, we want them to act.” To learn more about the Church of Scientology, its programs and courses, visit www.scientology.org.  

Drug-Free South Welcomes Community to Fitness Fair in Honor of World Health Day

The Drug-Free South and the Edgehill neighborhood have partnered to organize a fitness fair for the community in honor of World Health Day. It will take place on April 8^th, 3:30-7:00pm in the community hall of the Church of Scientology, 1130 8^th Ave South.

Organizers say the Fitness Fair will help promote overall health and well-being.

According to Nashville.gov, the city faces statistics such as 36 percent of its youth being obese or overweight, and according to America’s Health Rankings, Tennessee is ranked 43 on the list for overall health.

Many different organizations will be participating with information including non-profits, government agencies, healthcare companies, and faith-based organizations.

A panel discussion of health, fitness, and drug prevention experts will present information at 5:00pm. According to the Facebook Event Page, there will be healthy refreshments as well as door prizes given out to attendees.

For more information, send an email to media@drugfreesouth.org.

Church of Scientology Looks Forward to 31st Anniversary in Nashville

The Church of Scientology is preparing to celebrate its 31st year in Nashville, TN. 

The Nashville Church of Scientology will celebrate its 31st anniversary with a private event in April. Rev. Brian Fesler, pastor of the Church, says, “We’ve been in Nashville for 31 years, and seven in the historic Fall School building. We are celebrating our progress as well as the spirit of Nashville.”

On a global scale, the Church of Scientology has enjoyed greater expansion during the past decade than in the previous 50 years combined. All the while the Church’s ever-growing humanitarian programs in the fields of drug education, human rights, morals education and disaster relief have positively impacted hundreds of millions of lives.

In Nashville, the Church has seen thousands of people entering its doors for the first time over the last seven years. On a humanitarian mission, the Church has participated in numerous human rights awareness events and helped create such events as Human Rights Day and the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. march and convocation.  Church members, volunteering in the area of drug education, have delivered more than 230 seminars in schools in Tennessee and have distributed more than 50,000 booklets.

“Scientology is an active religion, where one seeks to know life and help people," says Fesler, "and we have the tools to accomplish that. We don’t ask our members to believe, we want them to act.” To learn more about the Church of Scientology, its programs and courses, visit www.scientology.org. 

Tennessee Human Rights Day Celebration Uplifting Future Generations

The Tennessee Celebration of International Human Rights Day will take place in Nashville at the First Amendment Center on December 10th, 5pm – 7pm. 

The Tennessee Celebration of International Human Rights Day will take place in Nashville at the First Amendment Center on December 10th, 5pm – 7pm.  The celebration centers around the presentation of the human rights awards. Past recipients of these prestigious honors have included the Rev. Bill Barnes, Rev. James “Tex” Thomas, Rosetta Miller Perry, Father Joseph Breen, Gatluak Thach, First Baptist Capitol Hill, Stephanie Teatro, and many more.

The committee planning the event decided to incorporate something new this year and has taken up donations which will go to sponsor students to attend Model U.N., an extra-curricular activity in which students typically role-play delegates to the United Nations and simulate UN committees. “This is a great learning experience for young people and we are excited to participate in this way,” says Rev. Brian Fesler who chairs the planning committee.

The planning committee is comprised of the Tennessee Human Rights Commission, Metro Human Relations Commission, United Nations Association, Amnesty International, Tennessee United for Human Rights, the Church of Scientology and others, who work together each year to plan the event.

At the celebration on December 10^th, awards will be given to community leaders in three categories: Rising Advocate, Outstanding Service and Lifetime Achievement.

Rising Advocate Awards will be given to three individuals who have made great strides for human rights and show even greater promise for the future. They are Ashford Hughes, Sr., an emerging leader for the labor movement who has been a proponent of labor and worker’s rights and Aisha Lbhalla with the Muslim Women’s Council who works for religious freedom and cultural diversity.

The award winner in the category of Outstanding Service is Dr. Marisa Richmond, the first trans woman to win an election in the state of Tennessee, for her tireless work to ensure transgender equality and equality between Caucasian and African American transgender people in Tennessee.

Lifetime Achievement awards will go to Kwame Lillard, who was significantly involved in the management of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, the Nashville sit-ins, and the Freedom Rides and training of Freedom Riders; and Bernard Werthan, a founding member of the Family of Abraham and Faith and Culture Center, as well as member of the Community Advocates Advisory Council joint initiative of Vanderbilt Medical Center and Meharry Medical College, past board member of Goodwill Industries, Community Nashville, Urban League of Middle Tennessee, Nashville Business Minority Center, and YWCA Advisory Board, among others.

International Human Rights Day occurs every year to commemorate the ratification of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations on Dec 10, 1948. According to the event’s website, nashvillehumanrights.org, “In Tennessee, Human Rights Day has become a day to reflect and look at lessons learned and battles won, while various human rights groups join forces and commit to creating an even better future.” For more information, visit www.nashvillehumanrights.org.