The Church of Scientology provides several free materials and no-cost access programs for individuals interested in its teachings, publications, and community services. These offerings are designed to make Scientology resources accessible to the public, regardless of financial ability. Based on official Church documentation, the following programs and materials are available at no charge: free booklets and books, free online correspondence courses, free public lectures and religious gatherings, and a free six-month IAS membership for new or qualifying individuals.
Free Dianetics Booklet and DVD
One of the primary free materials available is a booklet titled Dianetics: A Selection, which contains the first three chapters of the bestselling book Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health. This booklet is offered free of charge to the public. The Church also provides a DVD alongside the booklet. To receive these materials, interested individuals must complete an online request form. Upon submission, the Church will contact the requester for a mailing address to ship the booklet and DVD at no cost. The Church states that it values user privacy and will not rent or sell email addresses, with an option to unsubscribe at any time.
The Church promotes Dianetics as a tool for handling negative thoughts, increasing self-confidence, eliminating past physical and emotional pain, and addressing mental or emotional barriers in relationships. The Church notes that Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health was originally published on May 9, 1950, and that over 22 million copies have been sold. It is presented as a method that does not involve drugs or hypnosis and is used by professionals worldwide.
Free Scientology Books and Resources
In addition to the Dianetics booklet, the Church provides access to Scientology books through multiple channels. According to Church documentation, Scientology books may be obtained at almost any local lending library. This suggests that public libraries are a potential source for accessing Scientology literature without cost.
Furthermore, the Church maintains a books catalog, which is available online. This catalog lists available Scientology publications. While the specific titles and pricing are not detailed in the provided source material, the existence of a catalog indicates a structured offering of published materials.
For those unable to afford donations for services, the Church states that there are Free Scientology Centers within Churches of Scientology where auditing may be received without donation. Additionally, free public lectures, Sunday services, and other religious gatherings are available with no requested donation.
Free Online Correspondence Courses
The Church offers free online correspondence courses to any member of the public. These courses include all materials and technology contained in the Scientology Handbook. The courses are accessible without cost and cover the principles and practices outlined in the handbook.
Free Public Lectures and Religious Gatherings
Churches of Scientology host free public lectures and religious gatherings. These events are open to the public and do not require any donation. The Church describes these as opportunities for individuals to learn about Scientology principles and participate in community activities.
Volunteer Ministers Program
The Church of Scientology operates a Volunteer Ministers program that is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. These volunteers are on call to minister to those in need. While not a "free sample" in the traditional sense, the program represents a no-cost service provided by the Church to the public.
Free Six-Month IAS Membership
The International Association of Scientologists (IAS) offers a free six-month membership to new Scientologists. This membership is typically offered when enrolling in a first service, but it is also available to anyone who has never had an IAS membership before, even if they have taken services. The membership is valid for six months and has no fee.
The benefits of the free six-month membership include: - An IAS Membership card - The introductory Membership Edition of IMPACT magazine - Membership news email updates - Invitations to showings of IAS events and briefings in the local area - Invitation to attend the live IAS Anniversary Event - Eligibility for member discounts on Dianetics and Scientology books and lectures as offered by Churches of Scientology
Freedom Magazine
The Church of Scientology publishes Freedom Magazine, which has been in publication since 1968 and is distributed in 20 nations. The magazine is dedicated to advancing awareness and achievement of human rights. It is described as a catalyst for groundbreaking reforms in the public interest and is recognized as a leading voice for human rights and civil liberties. While the provided source material does not specify how to obtain a free copy of Freedom Magazine, it is a publication produced by the Church.
Access for Those Unable to Afford Donations
The Church addresses the issue of affordability for its services. For individuals who cannot afford to make donations, the Church provides access to Free Scientology Centers within Churches of Scientology where auditing may be received without donation. Additionally, the Church offers free public lectures, Sunday services, and other religious gatherings with no requested donation. Books may be obtained at local lending libraries, and free online correspondence courses are available.
Conclusion
The Church of Scientology offers a range of free materials and no-cost programs to the public. These include a free Dianetics booklet and DVD, access to books through local libraries, free online correspondence courses, free public lectures and religious gatherings, and a free six-month IAS membership for qualifying individuals. The Church also operates a Volunteer Ministers program for those in need. These offerings are designed to make Scientology resources accessible to individuals regardless of their financial situation.