Scientology has famously attracted Hollywood megastars like Tom Cruise and John Travolta, but exactly what does the religion involve?
Among the many rumours, court cases and cult-like ideas surrounding the religion, the church of Scientology has become almost as famous as the stars who worship with the religion — and there may be a good reason why.
The word “scientology” means knowing how to know and this is what the religion, which was developed by L Ron Hubbard, is based around.
The main idea behind the religion is that each individual is behind the “driver’s seat” of their own lives and has the ability to answer life’s everyday questions about relationships, money, happiness and family.
The religion follows old Eastern traditions and involves each person having an increasing knowledge of themselves. But it’s hard not to affiliate Scientology without the celebrities involved.
Although it has been highly criticised, it has been reported that Scientology may appeal to celebrities and people within the spotlight because it appeals to their personality and lifestyle. It has also been reported that L Ron Hubbard created “project celebrity”, which was aimed at attracting certain celebrities to the religion to enhance it.
Whether celebrities are being drawn to the religion because it supports their unique lifestyle or whether they are being targeted, one thing is certain: the celebrities are powerful and successful.
There are established Scientology Celebrity Centres to cater to artists, politicians, leaders of an industry and sports figures in Los Angeles, New York, London and Paris.
L Ron Hubbard established the celebrity centres to show appreciation to those who have the “power and vision to create a better world”.
Two of the biggest celebrity scientologists are of course Tom Cruise and John Travolta, but other stars including Jenna Elfman and Australian singer Kate Ceberano have also been linked to the religion.
Other well-known celebrity scientologists include Katie Holmes, Kelly Preston, Kirstie Alley, Catherine Bell and Nancy Cartwright.
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