In Scientology, these inward and spiritual acts associated with auditing and training to facilitate the unfolding of one’s spiritual nature are also linked with growth in religious knowledge and education. In the Scientology context this means primarily the study of the writings and recorded lectures of L. Ron Hubbard on Dianetics and Scientology. (But it also includes the courses which he constructed and films that he wrote and directed.) Again, this linkage of spiritual practice and scriptural study is found across tradition. The classical Hindu yogi simultaneously practices the austerities and reads his Vedas. The devout Muslim reads his Quran and observes the month of daylight fasting. These activities are seen to reinforce one another on the spiritual path.

Conclusion: In the light of this review of Scientology practice and activity, I conclude that Scientology does engage in worshipping activity, as worship is understood in the modern study of religion, in their places of worship. The activities of Scientologists in their places of worship fall into the range of patterns and practices found within the religious life of humankind.

M. Darrol Bryant