History takes its time in recording the events of significance that unfold along the timeline of generations. By design and impression, as a civilization, we mark those events on a calendar that is itself a reflection of the science and technologies that have for ages informed and tracked mankind’s progress.
Scientologists around the world marked the year 2017 as a milestone within the young religion’s ongoing missions to bring about a better world for humanity and to foster peaceful and productive lives amid the chaos.
As these pages demonstrate—and as the stories behind them illuminate—the year has marked time through a drum beat of accomplishments that illustrate what can be achieved by a dedicated assembly whose goals reflect a sustained commitment to the technology of Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard.
Grand openings in new cities in 2017 spoke not only to the spiritual expansion of Scientology, but to the humanitarian programs that are a foundation of the religion itself. As was evident, the mission of securing religious and personal freedoms for all Scientologists was a marked success. While challenges remain, the message of 2017 was that the technology of Scientology works for all humankind.
The dedicated work of Scientologists across the globe has changed ideas and attitudes about human rights and human happiness. The theme of that change has by degrees helped carry a troubled world away from religious intolerance and toward freedom, inclusiveness, interfaith cooperation and the moral codes of responsible lives, marking progress toward a better civilization.
The year 2017 will also hold a special place in Church history for the work of the Volunteer Ministers who lead this special edition in their much-recognized responses to the human misery brought on by natural disasters.
The milestones of 2017, under the leadership of Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board Religious Technology Center, also included the full recognition of Scientology in Macedonia, Colombia and Mexico, as government leaders officially endorsed what has always been true: that Scientology serves both Man and Man’s spirit, in the spirit of uplifting both.
—The Editors
