All around the circle that is historic Market Square, energy surged as civic leaders, local residents and Scientologists flocked to welcome the Grand Opening of the new Ideal Church of Scientology Eastern Cape.
-- Ecstatic crowds converge in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) to celebrate a historic landmark now restored and rising into the Nelson Mandela Bay skyline, marking a new dawn of spiritual freedom in this Land of Legends.
All around the circle that is historic Market Square, energy surged as civic leaders, local residents and Scientologists flocked to welcome the Grand Opening of the new Ideal Church of Scientology Eastern Cape. On a sunny, breezy Sunday afternoon on the Sunshine Coast, the occasion kicked off with live music and captivating dance, driven by the rhythmic beat of traditional djembe drums, infusing attendees with the indomitable spirit and vibrant heartbeat of Africa. The cheers resonated throughout Nelson Mandela Bay, named for the unifying president who transformed a nation—and was born in Eastern Cape.
This near-century-old landmark first rose as an elegant skyscraper, located at the crossroads of this proud port city—near the picturesque beaches of Algoa Bay. After meticulous restoration, she now stands as a stunning 10-story masterpiece, anchoring a ring of iconic landmarks surrounding Market Square—including the old railway station, the old post office and City Hall. The building now heralds a future rich with boundless spiritual growth in this storied Land of Legends.
The future came to life when Mr. David Miscavige, the ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, addressed the passionate crowd that filled every inch of the historic open plaza. “What an absolute honor to stand with you on this momentous day,” began Mr. Miscavige. “Because, when Africa calls, who could ever resist? Especially when it brings you to the home of Nelson Mandela, where freedom was not a slogan—but a cause worth dying for. And just as he fought for the freedom of a nation, so you fight for the freedom of the spirit itself,” he continued. “Because, as you take hold of this Ideal Org, you inherit a responsibility: to fulfill Africa’s ever-present call for freedom.”
The Church of Scientology established a presence in Eastern Cape decades ago, and its ongoing commitment to community service has fostered strong partnerships. That was evidenced by the presence of numerous dignitaries representing every strata of South African society, commemorating the occasion and offering speeches and accolades during the celebration.
Mr. Graham Taylor, Chairman of the Historical Society of Port Elizabeth, honored the work the Church had done in restoring the city landmark. “Today we stand at the historical core of this city. I’ve loved having a front-row seat, seeing you—day after day—for more than 50,000 hours. Think of it: 50,000 hours preserving history.” With a nod to the building behind him, he said, “From restoring South African black granite to reviving two dozen carved lion heads now gracefully roaming up 10 stories, you’ve returned our treasured friend back to her full grandeur. Or, as we like to say: You turned lemons into lemonade.
“Religion has always been a building block of society,” he continued, “and upon that foundation you’ve built a pillar of hope standing tall at the epicenter of historic Market Square. Talk about an investment into our future. This is the most significant contribution to our social infrastructure for over 50 years. Actually, make that ever!”
Prince Sonwabile Ndamase electrified the audience as he spoke to the spirit of help embodied in the Church’s Scientology Volunteer Ministers. “My own story with you begins ‘in a flash of yellow.’ Mid-pandemic, your Volunteer Ministers came to my home and safeguarded my family. You went into our villages, our townships, our cities—everywhere.
“And the arrival of your VMs in their bright yellow jackets became a symbol of help and hope in our darkest hour. Your presence showed every South African that, truly, Something Can Be Done About It!”
Rev. Thabang Xaba honored the lifesaving work of L. Ron Hubbard’s Drug Rehabilitation Technology. “One young man’s story still shakes my soul. His deep struggle led him to the razor’s edge where death waited on one side, and prison on the other. But like an ancient miracle, just in time, Narconon ‘appeared on his doorstep.’
“Then, step by step, low self-esteem turned into personal pride,” Rev. Xaba added. “Spiritual confusion transformed into newfound purpose. Or, as he tells it, ‘I came face to face with myself—and I now love the person I am becoming.’ Your Church delivers time and again. And to my fellow church leaders across this country, I say, let us work together and use this day as a springboard to fulfill the purpose of our nation!”
The final guest speaker was Ms. Patricia Mokwala, a specialist with the National Department of Social Development, who described the growing respect for the Church within South Africa’s public sector. “My Ministry Director told me, ‘Go down to the Church of Scientology and see what they are doing … because they are doing great works.’ This is the power of your work. This is the strength you have awakened in South Africa.
“Social development is about igniting potential, helping people rise above their circumstances,” Ms. Mokwala said. “We meet many who believe their solutions must come from the outside, from the sky, from somewhere else. But you teach something revolutionary: that the solution comes from within. None of us can do everything but, united, we can do anything.”
The new Eastern Cape Ideal Org provides all residents with an introduction to Dianetics and Scientology, beginning with the Public Information Center. Its displays, containing more than 1,000 films, present the beliefs and practices of the Scientology religion and the life and legacy of Founder L. Ron Hubbard. The Information Center also offers a detailed overview of the renowned Church-sponsored humanitarian programs—including a worldwide human rights education initiative; far-reaching drug education, prevention and rehabilitation programs; a global network of literacy and learning centers; and the Scientology Volunteer Minister Program, which has become one of the world’s largest independent relief forces. The Information Center is open morning to night for visitors to tour at their leisure and return as often as they wish.
The Church’s Chapel provides for Scientology congregational gatherings, including Sunday Services, Weddings and Naming Ceremonies—as well as a host of events open to members of all faiths in the name of community collaboration. The new Church further includes multiple seminar rooms and classrooms, in addition to dozens of rooms for Scientology auditing (spiritual counseling).
About the company: The Church of Scientology South Africa is dedicated to promoting spiritual freedom, community empowerment, and humanitarian service throughout the country. With a presence spanning decades, the Church fosters partnerships across diverse sectors to uplift individuals and communities through practical programs based on the teachings of L. Ron Hubbard. The newly opened Ideal Church of Scientology Eastern Cape, housed in a meticulously restored historic landmark in Gqeberha’s Market Square, serves as a vibrant center for spiritual growth, education, and community collaboration. It offers access to Scientology’s extensive humanitarian initiatives—including drug rehabilitation, human rights education, literacy and learning centers, and the globally recognized Volunteer Minister Program, which provides practical aid in times of crisis. The Church is open to all people seeking greater personal awareness, purpose, and the tools to overcome life’s challenges.
Contact Info:
Name: Sandile Hlayisi
Email: Send Email
Organization: Church of Scientology South Africa
Address: Randburg, Johannesburg North, Gauteng, South Africa
Phone: 061 907 9325
Website: https://www.castlekyalami.org.za/
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