In the Hasi Inc. incorporation papers the corporation
is clearly designated as a 'religious fellowship'.
...
all religions seek truth.
Religions in the 1960's use modern aids. ...
...
Scientology 1970 is being planned on a religious
organization basis throughout the world."1
13.14. The Commission accepts the evidence that there are religious people who are
members of the Scientology organization, but wishes to point out that though Scientology may
have given such persons an increased awareness of the spiritual side of man, the only faith
it teaches is that in man himself. The God they worship and the religious faith that sustains
them they have learnt to know outside of Scientology.
13.15. To sum up:
The Commission's conclusion is that Scientology can at most be accepted as a
philosophy. It is not a Church in the Christian sense and it lacks the attributes common to
all religions by which it could qualify as a religion.
13.16. The Commission records its opinion that in terms of norms obtaining in the
Republic of South Africa, Scientology cannot be regarded as a religion or a Church. The fact
that its registration as a Church is acceptable before the law as sufficient proof of its
being a religion in the United States of America has no bearing on its status as a Church or
a religion in the Republic of South Africa. The Commission recommends that the State giving
due regard to the principle of freedom of religion, considers the desirability of defining the
minimum standards required to be complied with before any organization can be registered as a
Church pursuant to the Companies Act or other relevant legislation.
_________
1Hubbard L. Ron: Religion. HCO Policy Letter of October 29, 1962. Hubbard Communications
Office, East Grinstead, Sussex, England.
217