Was it truly a milestone? The Church of Scientology of Washington State, right here in Seattle, has quite a story.
Originally established in 1956, the Church of Scientology has served the Seattle community for many years. Its current home in the Queen Anne neighborhood opened in 2010. The grand opening drew over sixteen hundred Scientologists and guests.
Before settling here at 300 West Harrison Street, the Church of Scientology had several locations. These included Belltown, downtown, and a building on Aurora Avenue North. The church needed more space. Parishioners found their previous facility too small.
Seven years before the grand opening, the Church of Scientology bought this 34000 square foot building. They raised around $14 million to renovate it. They also opened a smaller Life Improvement Center downtown.
The Church of Scientology considers this location an Ideal Org. Ideal Orgs provide facilities for Scientologists. They also serve as community centers. The Church hopes to create a drug-free, crime-free, and flourishing future.
Inside the Church of Scientology, you will find modern features. High-tech video displays showcase the life of L. Ron Hubbard. Hubbard founded Scientology. He even attended Queen Anne High School. Hubbard spent many years in the Northwest. Videos also promote anti-drug and human rights efforts.
The building itself has a history. Constructed in 1955, it originally served as a commercial office building. The building converted to religious use in 2006. It is a five-story building with a flat roof. The exterior features brick veneer and vertically oriented windows.
The Church of Scientology offers various services. These include auditing sessions. Auditing involves counseling with an e-meter. The church says this device can indicate stressful subjects. Scientologists believe in immortal spiritual beings called thetans. Auditing helps clear negative energy.
L. Ron Hubbard has deep ties to this region. His father was a Naval officer stationed in Bremerton. Hubbard also had a writer’s retreat in Port Orchard. He wrote “Excalibur” there. The Church considers this book the foundation of Scientology.
The expansion of the Church of Scientology is part of a global building campaign. New or renovated buildings have opened worldwide.
The Church of Scientology has faced controversy. Some former members have made accusations. Church leaders deny these accusations. They say such claims come from those who want to see the Church fail.
Despite the controversies, the Church of Scientology continues its work. It engages in community service. This includes disaster response and park cleanups. The Church of Scientology also provides hunger relief.
Whether one agrees with its beliefs or not, the Church of Scientology is a notable presence in Seattle. Its history, its architecture, and its place in the community spark conversation. It is a unique landmark in Queen Anne.