Religion: A Sci-Fi Faith

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Few Demands. Those attracted to the faith tend to be young, drifting, fairly well educated and in search of psychological answers more than spiritual solace. They need not resign from other churches. For many, Scientology offers a method of taking personal responsibility for one's life, while making few demands of belief or absolute morality. Converts can be effusive. Lynne Stang of Washington, D.C., joined when her marriage began breaking up. She likes her Congregational church "for its sense of community and singing, but when it comes to making your own life better, there's no place like the Church of Scientology." Charles Nichols, a North Carolina insurance agent, says he was inspired by former Pro Quarterback John Brodie's testimonial that Scientology healed his throwing arm. Nichols, an active Methodist, thinks that Scientology has enhanced his selfesteem: "It's easier to communicate, to know what to do."

Scientologists in the past two years paid cash not only for the Clearwater properties but for two buildings in New York, two in Los Angeles, and others in Boston, St. Louis, Washington, D.C., Miami, San Diego and Riverside, Calif. Hubbard himself, by now an Operating Thetan, is about to sell his ship and establish a new land base in Ireland, while the worldwide scourging of engrams continues.