More than 6,000 Scientologists and guests gathered to celebrate the dedication and opening of the new Church of Scientology of Rome in the Casalotti di Boccea district on October 24, 2009.

Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board of Religious Technology Center and ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, presided over the dedication and opening of the new Church of Scientology of Rome.

Mr. David Miscavige led the ribbon cutting to open the new Church of Scientology of Rome, joined by the Church's Executive Director and dignitaries, marking the greatest expansion in 30 years of Scientology in Italy.

Mr. Dino De Pasquale, Disaster Manager of Italian Civil Defense: "I have seen and experienced your effectiveness, your superior organization skills, your ability to get any job done, no matter what that job entails."

Professor Silvio Calzolari, Theological Faculty, Vatican University, Florence: "Ron Hubbard left a heritage of wisdom and knowledge and you can now spread it in Rome and across the rest of the Mediterranean world."

Professor Luigi Berzano, Professor of Sociology of Culture and Religion, University of Turin: "This is a historical moment, not only for you, friends of the Church of Scientology, but for those who still believe in a better world and work to achieve it."

Ms. Laura Guercio, President Legal Aid Worldwide: "I had the chance to become familiar with the great work you have done to take a stand for human rights and the freedom of all."

The new Church of Scientology of Rome stands in the Casalotti di Boccea District, surrounded by 28 acres of parkland. The interior spaces of the 70,000-square-foot contemporary structure were re-designed to accommodate all parishioner services and activities.

The Public Information Center, with self-guided tours of interactive multimedia displays, presents Scientology beliefs and practices, the life and legacy of Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard and global social betterment programs.

The chapel in the new Church of Scientology of Rome is the setting for Sunday services, weddings, naming ceremonies, graduations and other Scientology ceremonies. It is also available to the community for special occasions, workshops and meetings.

The auditorium serves the parishioners of the Church of Scientology of Rome as well as the community for events, conventions and meetings. It may also be reconfigured for banquets, receptions and other special functions.

The courtyard with its gardens for parishioners of the Church of Scientology of Rome and guests to enjoy.