Church of Scientology marks its first anniversary in Gqeberha’s Market Square

A little over a year ago, Gqeberha’s Market Square pulsed with an unprecedented surge of energy as civic leaders, local residents, and Scientologists gathered for the grand opening of theChurch of Scientology Eastern Cape. Featuring live music and traditional dance, the occasion signalled the completion of a thoughtful renovation of the historic United Building, a landmark dating back to 1934, now transformed into the church’s new premises. The church recently commemorated its first anniversary, marking a year of expansion and continued community outreach.

Driven by the rhythmic beat of djembe drums, it was a vibrant and exciting celebration, filled with joy and pride for everything the church and its congregation have accomplished. The Church of Scientology established a presence in the Eastern Cape decades ago, fostering profound partnerships through its ongoing commitment to community service. Since opening its new premises in Market Square, the church has significantly expanded its community outreach efforts.

Its unstoppable volunteers have put in thousands of man-hours to support a range of local projects — from sprucing up downtown Gqeberha by cleaning streets, repainting worn bollards, and planting flowers, to collecting donations to provide shoes for learners in need. Volunteers have also focused on tackling serious issues affecting the city centre, particularly drug abuse. They visited schools to raise awareness of the effects of drugs, and how they can destroy not only the lives of those who use them, but also the lives of those around them — including parents, neighbours, and the wider community.

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The volunteers distributed thousands of free information booklets titledThe Truth About Drugs, along withThe Way to Happiness, a non-religious moral code written by Scientology founder L Ron Hubbard. “When one talks about drugs, it always comes with a degradation, which can clearly be seen in the neighbourhood, and with criminality, which makes areas more dangerous and insecure,” said Sabelo Bless, public relations director for the Church of Scientology in Gqeberha. “That booklet straightens out what is right and wrong and it helps improve the surroundings. We are proud of what we have accomplished in the first year to assist our community.”

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