Nashville Church of Scientology to Hold Workshop on Disaster Readiness

The Nashville Church of Scientology is observing World Civil Defense Day on March 1st with a special workshop called “Survival Training.”

The Nashville Church of Scientology will recognize the United Nations World Civil Defence Day by hosting a workshop with experts on emergency management, volunteerism and self-care in times of disaster. It has been nearly six years since the historic hundred year flood in Nashville, but organizers say vigilance is key. “You never know when something disastrous will happen, but you you are always better off if you’re prepared,” says Rev. Brian Fesler, pastor of the Church.

World Civil Defence Day was created by decision of the International Civil Defence Organization (ICDO) General Assembly in 1990, and is celebrated every year on the 1st of March. According to ICDO, “This Day… has two main purposes: that of bringing to the attention of the world public the vital importance of Civil Protection and of raising awareness of the preparedness for, and prevention and self-protection measures in the event of accidents or disasters; and that of paying tribute to the efforts, sacrifices and accomplishments of all the national services responsible for the fight against disasters.”

Fesler explained how the Church of Scientology becomes involved during times of disaster. “Our Volunteer Ministers work with the Church of Scientology Disaster Response teams. Anyone of any culture or creed may train as a Volunteer Minister and use these tools to help their families and communities, and all are welcome to do so,” he said. Fesler points to the website volunteerministers.org, “The site contains online training one would need to utilize this technology.” 

In creating the Volunteer Ministers program, Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard wrote, “If one does not like the crime, cruelty, injustice and violence of this society, he can do something about it. He can become a Volunteer Minister and help civilize it, bring it conscience and kindness and love and freedom from travail by instilling into it trust, decency, honesty and tolerance.”

The “Survival Training” workshop takes place on March 1st at the Church of Scientology. To find out more, call 615-687-4600 and ask for Julie Brinker.