Religious leaders gathered last week at the Church of Scientology Los Angeles to celebrate World Interfaith Harmony Week, sharing personal perspectives on their faith to build understanding and promote unity in diversity. This annual global observance was established by the United Nations to promote peace and understanding among people of all faiths, with events held worldwide to strengthen the ideals of peace within and among all religions, nations, and peoples.
The Scientology Volunteer Ministers chapter of Los Angeles hosted an event on February 11 in celebration of these principles. The evening opened with a prayer from Chief Joseph Tasunka Okuna Jr. of the Lakota Nation, who performed a ceremonial chant to offer protection to those in attendance. Following this ceremony, representatives of diverse faiths shared the stage, speaking about their personal journeys and their desire to collaborate with one another. Those speaking represented Christianity, Islam, Falun Gong, and Scientology.
Pastor Oliver E. Buie from the Bel-Vue United Presbyterian Church highlighted the importance of this unity, stating, "The message and vision of unity rings loud and clear. It is essential that the spirit of oneness continue as we work together to spread peace, unity, and love for all of humanity." This gathering underscores the practical application of interfaith dialogue in addressing broader societal challenges through shared spiritual values.
The event also reflected foundational principles articulated by humanitarian and Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard, who emphasized the vital importance of religion in society. In his 1976 essay Religious Influence in Society, Hubbard wrote, "When a culture has fallen totally away from spiritual pursuits into materialism, one must begin by demonstrating they are each a soul, not a material animal. From this realization of their own religious nature individuals can again come to an awareness of God and become more themselves." This perspective informs initiatives like the Scientology Volunteer Ministers program, which aims to uplift communities through cooperative interfaith efforts.
The Church of Scientology of Los Angeles serves as a home for the local community and as a meeting ground for cooperative efforts to uplift people of all denominations. More information about the programs and initiatives headed by the Church of Scientology is available by visiting https://www.scientology-losangeles.org or watching Inside a Church of Scientology on the Scientology Network. Details about the Volunteer Ministers initiative can be found at https://www.volunteerministers.org.
World Interfaith Harmony Week represents a critical ongoing initiative in a world often divided by religious differences. By providing a platform for leaders from Christianity, Islam, Falun Gong, Scientology, and Indigenous traditions to share their stories and common goals, such events demonstrate that interfaith cooperation is not merely symbolic but a necessary foundation for global peace and mutual respect. The participation of diverse traditions highlights the universal human aspiration for spiritual connection and communal harmony, offering a model for other communities seeking to bridge divides through dialogue and shared purpose.
