The International Association of Scientologists
he International Association of Scientologists (IAS) was formed at a convention held at Saint Hill Manor in East Grinstead, Sussex, England, in 1984. Delegates from around the world representing the Scientologists in their areas gathered in recognition of the need to unite all Scientologists as one international body. Its purpose is to assure the survival of the religion and guarantee that Scientology will be practiced for all time through a strong group that is composed of those who believe in the rights of man and freedom of religion.
The IAS is today a membership organization open to all Scientologists from all nations. It unifies the members and provides a forum to keep them informed of important developments and sharing the successes of the religion around the world. It is the strength of the individual members of the team, briefed and coordinated one with another that gives strength to the group. All great movements have succeeded based on the personal conviction and dedication of their members to overcoming any barriers to achieving their objectives.
Regrettably, history has seen many attempts to suppress religious freedom and human rights. From the persecution of early Christians in Rome, to the nineteenth-century assault on Mormons in the United States, to the slaughter of Jews in Nazi concentration camps, many faiths have suffered dearly. The International Association of Scientologists also serves the purpose of protecting Scientology from similar attempted persecution.
For this reason, in the 1984 convention at Saint Hill Manor, in addition to forming the IAS and adopting a constitution and electing a board, the delegates also formulated and signed the Pledge to Mankind to rededicate themselves to the aims of Scientology. A copy of the Pledge to Mankind is included in the reference section of this book.
The IAS was enthusiastically embraced by Scientologists all over the world and, through their financial support and membership activities, rapidly became a major force, both protecting the religion and supporting the Church and individual Scientologists in their actions for social reform.
Each year, delegates representing Association members from all areas of the world gather at an Annual Convention of Delegates to review the accomplishments of the previous year, plan for the next and elect the board members of the Association as necessary. The Annual Convention of Delegates is held in different locations around the world, together with a large anniversary celebration. Significant accomplishments and progress toward the aims of Scientology are acknowledged and the event is broadcast to members in many countries.
