 "Photo: Jordan Smothermon")
Editor's Note: This is the fourth part of a series on the many religious centers and places of worship available to students on and near campus.
What goes on inside the Drag's own Church of Scientology?
The Church of Scientology of Texas is located across from the heart of UT's campus, but there are few students who come to the center, said Director of Special Affairs Cathy Norman.
"Although we're located near campus, we're not exclusively students," said Norman, who got involved with Scientology in the 1970s when she was a UT student. "The outreach is to everyone."
There was a higher percentage of student involvement and interest when the center moved to its current location in 1980 because the Scientology movement was fairly young then, she said. There are not any certain programs aimed towards students now.
Scientology literally means "the study of truth," according to the religion's official Web site. It is about a set of ideas connected to the human mind and spirit and a set of practices that can be important to people, Norman said.
There are classes offered seven days a week and people can watch videos about Scientology at the institution, she said. At its most introductory level, Scientology can have a self-help feel.
People from all over the southern part of Texas come to the institution, so the church serves a large geographical area, but there are about 300 adults who are consistently active, Norman said. Visitors from out of town like the location because of its proximity to campus, good restaurants and activities.
Norman said though the center hopes to attract students, it appeals more to non-student adults.
Scientology is a minority religion, but Austin and UT are tolerant communities, she said.
"I have always felt welcome here in Austin," Norman said. "Minority doesn't make me feel isolated."
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