KINGNEWSWIRE // In September 2024, devastating floods hit the Jeseníky region in the Czech Republic, displacing thousands of people and causing extensive damage. Scientology Volunteer Ministers quickly mobilized, cleaning more than 120 buildings and helping 200 families return home in less than two weeks. For their incredible over 3,000 hours of volunteering and dedication, they were honored at the Ď Awards in Prague. Known as the “Yellow Angels,” their contributions went beyond physical assistance to provide spiritual and emotional support, embodying the principles of compassion and humanity.
Catastrophic floods have devastated the Jeseníky region of the Czech Republic, leaving thousands of residents displaced and in urgent need of aid. Homes were submerged, infrastructure was damaged, and communities were left to face the daunting task of rebuilding. In the midst of this crisis, a group of Scientology Volunteer Ministers mobilized to provide both physical and emotional support. Their remarkable efforts not only helped rebuild affected areas, but also inspired national recognition.
Recognition at the Ď Awards
The prize recognizes patrons and benefactors in the fields of culture, charity, science, education and moral values in the Czech Republic and beyond. This distinction highlights acts of generosity and commitment that inspire others to contribute to society. On Wednesday, January 8, 2025, the 24th annual Ď Awards ceremony took place at the National Theater in Prague. The Ď Award (“Ď” means “Thank you” in Czech) was presented to Scientology Volunteer Ministers for their extraordinary contributions following the devastating floods. The group cleaned more than 120 buildings in less than two weeks, provided spiritual and emotional support, and helped approximately 200 families return home faster. Their collective efforts totaled more than 3,000 volunteer hours.
In the “Life and People” category, the award was presented to David Macoun who led a group of more than 120 volunteer Scientology ministers to help residents in Jeseniky region severely affected by flooding. Under his leadership, the group not only helped restore access to more than 1,000 homes, but also brought comfort and stability to the community.
Their success, as Macoun stated, was rooted in the teachings inspired by Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard, who once said: “If anyone does not like crime, cruelty, injustice and the violence in this society, he can do something. They can become a VOLUNTEER MINISTER and help to civilize society, bringing awareness, kindness, love and relief from suffering by instilling trust, decency, honesty and tolerance.”
Richard Langer, founder and organizer of the Ď Prix, praised the group’s commitment: “They are individuals from all backgrounds, with diverse professions and skills. They are entrepreneurs, healthcare workers, teachers and more, united by their commitment to helping others.
Local impact of the Yellow Angels
Known locally as the “Yellow Angels” due to their recognizable yellow shirts, hats and jackets, the volunteers were welcomed by residents of Písečná and Nová Ves in the Jeseníky region. Beyond physical labor, they provided emotional and spiritual support to people struggling with loss and uncertainty. This involved offering “helpouts,” a form of individualized help rooted in the principles of Scientology, designed to help people cope with difficult situations.
Their efforts also earned them the People’s Choice Award, an honor determined by widespread public appreciation for their valuable contributions.
Ivan Arjona, Scientology representative to the EU and UN, congratulated the volunteers for their dedication and the recognition they received. He said: “The recognition of Scientology Volunteer Ministers at the Ď Awards reflects not only their tireless efforts at Jeseníky, but also the universal values of compassion and service that we uphold. This recognition is a testament to what can be accomplished when individuals come together to help those in need, embodying the principles of humanity and solidarity on which our programs are based.
Michael Kurdik, one of the leaders of the Scientology Volunteer Ministers, expressed the group’s philosophy in his acceptance speech: “Our mission is to help and to show that something can be done. Helping others is natural for humans. It doesn’t matter where you come from or who you are: we are all human beings and we need to help each other. This is what a functioning society does.
The Volunteer Ministers Program was launched more than 30 years ago in response to a call from Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard to combat the decline of ethics and morality in society. As Mr. Hubbard pointed out: “If someone doesn’t like crime, cruelty, injustice and violence in society, they can do something about it. They can become volunteer ministers and help civilize society, bringing awareness, kindness, love and relief from suffering.
Through their dedication and actions, Scientology Volunteer Ministers have demonstrated the impact of collective goodwill and resilience, setting a remarkable example of humanitarian service.
Originally published in The European Times.
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