The original Founding Church of Scientology was established in Washington, DC in 1955 by L. Ron Hubbard. The address chosen for the new Church was on "Church Row," just six blocks from the White House.

On October 31, 2009, three thousand Scientologists and guests attended the dedication and opening of the new Founding Church. The structure was fully restored as one of Washington2019s premiere historical sites.

Opening ceremonies began with a traditional military marching band rendition of Stars and Stripes Forever.

Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board and ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, officiated at the dedication this day, inaugurating a new Church in the nation2019s capital.

Mr. Miscavige, joined by honored guests, officially opened the doors of the new Founding Church, which will serve the spiritual needs of its parishioners and offer unqualified help to the greater Washington, DC community as well.

The Honorable Brad Sherman, United States Congressman, California's 27th District: "The battle for human rights includes the battle to bring human rights awareness to all people. That is why the efforts of many churches and religions to focus on human rights issues is so important. And among them, the efforts of the Church of Scientology to promote the awareness of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights."

Ms. Diane Rothe-Smith, Executive Director, National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster: "The physical presence of this Church is most impressive. But to me, even far more impressive is the nature of your help, and the Volunteer Ministers who will walk out these doors to carry that help into the world."

Ms. Addie Richburg, Founder, National Alliance of Faith and Justice: "Of course you carry the burden common to all successful, truly helpful programs: to reach even more, to have even greater impact. The dedication of this new Church and facility is a stunning visual promise of even greater things to come."

Mr. Mike Silverstein, Chairman, Dupont Circle Advisory Neighborhood Commission and Representative of the Mayor of Washington, DC: "It is fitting that the Founding Church of Scientology has kept its roots here in the Dupont Circle community, and particularly in this 1918 legacy of one of DC's most important architects of the last century, Appleton Clark, Jr. ... More important now is what you will do from within these walls, through your leadership and participation in our community."

The doors are always open and the reception area stands ready to welcome visitors in for introductory lectures, films and self-guided tours through the Public Information Center of the Founding Church.

An extensive section of the Information Center is devoted to the Church's many social betterment activities. Here visitors learn about global initiatives to eradicate drug abuse, ensure human rights and respond to disasters through the Scientology Volunteer Minister's program.

Visitors may also view a multimedia presentation of the life and legacy of Church Founder L. Ron Hubbard. These include interviews with those who knew and worked with him, and photographic essays of his professional achievements.

The auditorium of the new Founding Church of Scientology of Washington, DC is used for congregational gatherings as well as serving as a Chapel for Sunday services, weddings and naming ceremonies.

The Academy is comprised of six course rooms which will be able to provide training to hundreds of ministers and parishioners at a time.