Scientology’s famous IAS tent is officially under construction, meaning we are just weeks away from what they call ‘the greatest gathering of Scientologists’.
Over the weekend, we received confirmation from several East Grinstead locals that increased activity had been noted around Saint Hill, Scientology’s UK headquarters – including a clear out at the Sea Org warehouse at Birches Industrial Estate.
One source even sent us photos from a drone flight over the premises, which clearly shows the marquee is almost half-way completed. Historically, the tent’s construction has started around 6-8 weeks before the event, which normally takes place mid-October.
Last year the event was met with the largest UK anti-Scientology protest since the Anonymous movement, 15 years ago. Organisers suggest there are “bigger and better” plans for their protest this year.
Those wishing to donate towards signage, logistics and other costs associated with the protest can contribute to an IAS Protest fund, which has been set up here.
The marquee is constructed to the rear of the Saint Hill Castle, where the confidential OT levels are delivered and Scientologists first learn about Xenu, the intergalactic warlord responsible for human suffering – according to founder L. Ron Hubbard.
Although Scientology claims the event is attended by up to 6,000 people, the legal capacity of the tent is more likely in the region of 3,000. The date for this year’s event has yet to be announced, but it is expected to take place mid-October.
Journalist Tony Ortega, who has been reporting on Scientology for almost 30 years at The Underground Bunker, tells us “Last year, David Miscavige and Tom Cruise made a big statement to the Scientology faithful by returning the IAS event to Saint Hill and having Tom not only fly in but also pose for photos with attendees. This year, do they have less to prove, or will they make another big show? I’d say it’s hard to predict the answer to that question.”
SUPPORT INDEPENDENT JOURNALISM
This website is entirely independent and reader-funded.
Please consider helping to keep it up and running with a donation. Thank you.
5 responses
[…] Anlass findet immer einmal im Jahr im Herbst in Saint Hill statt und die Scientologen kommen fliegend aus aller Welt dorthin. Letztes Jahr fand […]
Considering how Sea Org berthing crams 6, or more, people into a room rated for two, it sounds like an inspection should be held during the main event to be sure the legal capacity of the tent is not being violated.
I couldn’t agree more. Fingers crossed the authorities are taking note and inspect while the main event is going on.
Well they always 47x their attendance figures, so maybe 127 people? I may be wrong, but after last year’s blowout, I bet fewer people will show this year, and I sincerely hope the local officials are smart enough to not to hob nob. East Grinstead, we are watching…
We are watching, indeed.