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THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF SCIENTOLOGISTS
The IAS was established at Saint Hill Manor in East Grinstead, Sussex, England, in 1984 when delegates from around the world gathered in recognition of the need to unite all Scientologists as one international body.
Today the IAS is a membership organization open to all Scientologists from all nations. The strength of the individual members of the team, briefed and coordinated one with another, unifies and strengthens the group. For this reason, in addition to forming the IAS, adopting a constitution and electing a board, the first IAS delegates also formulated the Pledge to Mankind. To rededicate themselves to the aims of Scientology, they signed this pledge.
Catalyzed by this profound statement of purpose, Scientologists from around the world enthusiastically embraced the IAS and, through their financial support and membership activities, they rapidly made the IAS a major voice of religious freedom. IAS’s purpose is to unite, advance, support and protect the Scientology religion in all parts of the world, so the aims of Scientology as originated by L. Ron Hubbard can be achieved. It also supports churches of Scientology and individual Scientologists in their social reform activities. It ensures that the religion is defended and protected, so Scientologists can carry forth and achieve their mission of spiritual salvation.
In 1993, the IAS established the United States IAS Members Trust (USIMT) to raise tax deductible contributions from IAS members in the United States. The USIMT supports the same worthwhile purpose as the IAS.
Each year, delegates representing Association members from all over the world gather at an annual convention of delegates to review the accomplishments of the previous year, establish goals for the next year and elect the board of the Association as necessary. The Association also holds an annual anniversary celebration, where significant recent accomplishments and progress toward the aims of Scientology are acknowledged. The celebration is broadcast to members around the world.
 
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