Cruise 'is Christ' of Scientology

[The Sushi Bandit]

<edit: got this from a friend, I dont have a link for it>

By EMILY SMITH
US Editor
January 23, 2007


TOM Cruise is the new “Christ” of Scientology, according to leaders of the cult-like religion.

The Mission: Impossible star has been told he has been “chosen” to spread the word of his faith throughout the world.

And leader David Miscavige believes that in future, Cruise, 44, will be worshipped like Jesus for his work to raise awareness of the religion.

A source close to the actor, who has risen to one of the church’s top levels, said: “Tom has been told he is Scientology’s Christ-like figure.

“Like Christ, he’s been criticised for his views. But future generations will realise he was right.”

Cruise joined the Church of Scientology in the ’80s. Leader L Ron Hubbard claimed humans bear traces of an ancient alien civilisation.

[More Than A Feeling]

1. If I had hundreds of millions, I'll bet I could be their Christ too. n/t

[htuttle]

2. (Boing, boing, boing...) YOU'RE JUST BEING GLIB! HAHA! HAHA! HAHA!

(Boing, boing, boing...)



(Stephanie Miller fans will understand...)

[ayeshahaqqiqa]

4. Cue the coocoo clock

I got it :)

[Mojambo]

3. Thousands of years from now people will yell "Thomas Cruise!!"

When they stub their toe.

[bperci108]

5. I have a big-ass hammer....

...Anyone else got some big nails?



:evilgrin:

[mckara]

6. Does that Mean He Could Rapture Himself?

Some time very soon, let's hope!

[2Design]

7. he lost his appeal a long time ago n/t

[bleever]

8. HMWJC?

How Much Would Jesus Charge?

[zalinda]

9. This is pretty much garbage

Scientology doesn't have ANY person to worship EVER in it's teachings. Even L. Ron Hubbard wasn't worshiped, just revered. I think "a source close to the actor" wanted some money for his "inside knowledge" about Cruise, and made something up to sell.

Scientology is really misunderstood in what it teaches. It teaches you to be the best that you can be, then the best in a family, then a group, then mankind and so on. If you would talk to the people who work with the actors that are in Scientology, you would see that they are very well respected. They are professional when they work, which is why Cruise is well paid, and has lasted as long as he has.

Scientology can co-exist with other religions, as it leaves it to the individual to figure out who the supreme being is to them.

zalinda

[Hekate]

10. Uh huh. But the cost for rising in the ranks goes up as the customer does.

None of that nonsense about embracing all the poor and downtrodden, I don't think.

Tom and the rest of L. Ron Hubbard's followers are entitled to their beliefs and practices as long as they harm none -- but you know, that Katie looks like a deer in the headlights, and I do wonder what she had to sign away to get to be married to Tom. If she is married yet -- because the word from Keith Olbermann was the castle-in-Italy thing was not a legally binding marriage. I find their whole romance a bit creepy and one-sided as far as control goes.

Hekate

[zalinda]

14. Were you this creeped out when JFK Jr wed his bride?

She also looked like a deer in the headlights. I find it amazing how so many "intelligent" people can read rumor, and believe it as fact. Yes, the media does a real number on Cruise, who, btw, has only donated to dems.

As for their marriage, that is their business and no one else's. But you won't get the Southern Baptist subservient wife in a Scientology marriage, as man and woman is considered equal in status.

It really shows someone's true character when they have to bash someone else's religion. I don't believe in some of the religions mentioned on this forum, but you will never hear me put down someone because they don't believe as I do.

As a dem and a liberal, it makes me sad to read some of the posts on this board. While I can understand the animosity toward the repub party, and Bush specifically, I don't understand the other bashing that goes around on this board.

I understand that we are not all old hippies, peace and love and all that "nonsense". But, I certainly expected some amount of respect for other people's views.

zalinda

[Hekate]

15. Sorry to offend. My parents had a brush with it when I was very young...

... and the mail followed them from address to address for like 30 years. Sometimes daily. When I finally got around to asking them what that was about, Mom was a wee bit negative.

To her credit, while she wasn't much for religion personally she did teach us things like "the core beliefs of all religions are the Golden Rule" and more specifically to be tolerant (in the vocabulary of the day) of all.

And I grew up to study religion. I take it seriously. Sorry to have dissed yours -- it wasn't personal, nor was it terribly informed of me.

Hekate

[Danger Mouse]

21. So how do you respond tot his website, if scientology is so great?

http://www.xenu.net/

[Danger Mouse]

22. Scientology uses terror and slave labor:

read about the sea org and the horrible way that the 'faithful' are treated for the slightest infractions:
http://www.xenu.net/archive/so/

[Dorian Gray]

41. I agree with you that this story was probably

leaked by a nominal acquaintance of Cruise's, looking for a payoff. But, when it comes to TC, we have all the information that we need, through his own actions, to feel okay "mocking" him. As for Scientology, I don't like it. That comes... not from Cruise.... though his defense of the religion doesn't help anything. But, it comes from the nature of the religion. I've been approached by people to take the personality tests, and I've done so. I don't like the hard sell that they push on you.

But, that is my own opinion, and I'm not interested in arguing about or belittling someone who has found good in scientology. What I don't like, however, is the focus on self. Being the best one can be. There seems to be little focus on community and charity. I'm not interested in being the best that I can be. Rather, I'm interested in doing the best that I can for my community, and making that the best that it can be.

There is a difference, and I don't like that Scientology focuses more on selfishness rather than selflessness.

[zalinda]

43. They are not selfish, they went and helped in the

Katrina after math, although, of course, they were criticized. They are no better or worse than born again Christians who go door to door to sell their religion. Or Mormons who go on 2 year missions to spread their faith.

Back in the 70's they were doing investigations into senior citizen homes, and trying to get them cleaned up. They also work with drug addicts. But they don't advertise their community involvement. Doing good is the reward, not the recognition.

The concept of being the best you can be, is so you are not a drain on your family or community. If you are standing strong on your own two feet, you can contribute to the survival of your family or community. Very simple.

As for Cruise, you can mock him all you want. But, if he was a Christian, would you then blame Christianity for his behavior of jumping on a couch? I don't think so. His religion would not be a factor. Scientology does not change your core being.

And if you don't think that selflessness plays into Scientology, then you have never worked on staff at one of their organizations. They get paid very little, but have a strong commitment to Scientology, which they believe will stop this planet from being destroyed. They deeply care about mankind, and put in long hours. Their devotion is just as strong as nuns or priests in the Catholic church.

zalinda

[Dorian Gray]

48. I'm talking about the general theology

Of course there are individuals who set up charitable dwellings within Scientology. They've done work around the world during different catastrophes. After the tsunami, they were offering massages to people who had been hit. Narcanon is one of their babies. They're involved in a lot of stuff. But, the basic theology is one that focuses on the self rather than the community. I, personally, find working on the community to be a higher calling than working on myself.

Scientology and I would never fit.

ETA: And as for Cruise's actions, of course I wouldn't use him as a total representation of Scientology. He is a bit strange, though. He comes across as quite cocky, and I'm sure he would have been a Mr. Know It All with or without his Scientology background.

[hughee99]

11. There's nothing "body thetans" and Xenu are more afraid of

than loads of cash. Yes, like Christ, Cruise has tried to spread his beliefs and been criticized for his views. But then so have Jim Jones, *, Jesse Helms, the Flat Earth Society, Ted Kaczynski and Rush Limbaugh. I don't think future generations will realize that any of them were right.

[More Than A Feeling]

12. We in the Xenu Liberation Front won't let Cruise stop us from completing our quest!

We are closer than ever to releasing the rightful overlord of the galaxy! Hail Xenu!

(The Xenu Liberation Front is our militant wing. We also have the First Church of Xenu if you aren't ready to do battle, but still await the glorious day of liberation.)

:evilgrin:

[Danger Mouse]

20. Hail Xenu! Solidarity brother!

We fight for the Galactic Overlord, our rightful lord and master!

[The_Casual_Observer]

13. Kind of pathetic don't you think?

[Zhade]

50. Scientologists? Yes.

NT!

[moggie]

16. That explains it!

When Cruise opens his mouth, my reaction is often "Jesus Christ!", and now I know why!

[kwassa]

17. I guess Scientology aims low.

[NMMNG]

18. Considering it's a religion pulled out of the backside of a Sci-Fi writer

They couldn't have a better "Christ" than that whackjob. :crazy:

[Danger Mouse]

19. Great, the messiah of a religion for fucking morons is the king...

of fucking morons.
How apropos.

[Evoman]

23. We may have DUers who may be scientologists.

If I can get called out for saying the concept of heaven is dumb, then maybe we should call you out for this. I mean, I could say that christianity is a religion for fucking morons...would you like that? I know that you aren't as religious as perhaps other DUers here, but I can't believe the "bashing" here that is going on about scientology.

[Danger Mouse]

26. Read this website. I sympathize with the average scientologist more than anything else.

http://www.xenu.net/

As they are basically being totally fucked over by these people, and that makes me sad.
Anyway, read the website.
Scientology is a dangerous cult.

[Evoman]

28. I am fully aware of what scientology is, and I am fully aware of how dangerous it is.

I have read your link before. It ruins peoples lives....something that never happens, of course, with christianity or Islam. At least no scientologist has ever been accused of putting on a dynamite vest and blowing up other people.

[Danger Mouse]

31. I never said that. And I apologize for equating all scientologists with being morons.

Just tom cruise and the people that run the 'church.'

[zalinda]

27. Hey, it happens all the time

There is a real hate fest going on any time any one mentions Tom Cruise, John Travolta or Scientology. And if you mention Cruise or Travolta, the bashing of Scientology is sure to be mentioned in the same glowing terms as our fake President, maybe even worse.

They always post the anti-Scientology links, but it's funny no one posts anti-Christianity links when some one mentions a known Christian. How about anti-Jewish links, or anti-Islam links, or just anti-religion links, nope never see those.

It is a safe religion to bash and tell lies about, just like it is safe to tell jokes or insult fat people. I guess some people need to bash because they feel so insignificant in their every day life.

zalinda

[Danger Mouse]

29. Scientology is a religion created specifically to exploit and hurt people

and bilk them of their money.
Look at L. Ron Hubbard...his extensive writings detailed all the ways he intended to exploit and basically enslave others.
He even wrote that they should target celebrities to enhance their status and gain more funds.
I have issues with organized religions in general, but Scientology is the worst of the lot.

[Evoman]

32. You know I love you man, but c'mon.

All religions were created to exploit people and bilk them of their money. Its just that Paul's writings about the way he intended to exploit and enslave others have been lost in history.

[Danger Mouse]

33. No, I guess you're right.

Man, and thinking about that made me really depressed.
I wonder if there's any point to religion at all.

[Evoman]

34. C'mon...don't be depressed.

Atheists and agnostics are just as capable of being happy as anyone else. If you ever do become agnostic, you can start looking for other things to satisfy your curiosity about life.

[Danger Mouse]

35. I don't know.

I feel like I hate and love religion at the same time.
I love the principles, but I hate what it becomes in the hands of men. I guess that's the best way I can describe it. O despise L. Ron Hubbard because he is the prime example of when men totally exploit religious principles in order hurt other people. He's just as bad as sleaze like Pat Robertson or Fred Phelps, IMHO.

[More Than A Feeling]

36. Your crew is here to support you.

People around here, I have found, are very sensitive to the concerns of one who is conflicted about their beliefs and everything else concerning religion.

[Evoman]

38. Yeah, and best of all, the concern comes from all sides.

So whatever happens, or whatever you believe, you have people who care, and who you can talk to.

[Evoman]

37. I wish I could say something to make you feel better, but I really can't.

I don't love religion at all. I wish that somehow people could retain the sense of community that churches can bring, without all the god stuff.

The worlds chock full of con men and the power hungry. The only thing you can do is either avoid them as best you can, or give them a piercing palm strike.

[Evoman]

30. Lol....Zalinda, I'm an equal opportunities basher.

However, I hate being taken to task every time I'm the least bit critical of christianity, and then having the same person who accused me spout on about how scientology is bullshit.

I will stand up for you, because I do not think you are a moron (whether or not your a scientologist). But don't think for a second that I'll give it (or any other religion) a free pass ;).

[zalinda]

39. To tell you the truth, I don't like

organized religion much myself. Unfortunately, it is a necessary evil. It IS a way to control people, but without it many people would not be able to function in society. The leader of the church has much to do with how their members function in society, so you have the neocons and those who want peace, belonging to the same religion.

Whether or not Hubbard started Scientology to make money or not, is a moot point in this time and place, he's dead and can't spend the money. Why pay money to belong to a church? Well, most people donate to their churches, some 10%. He believed that if you have to pay for something you will treat it as if it has more value. There are good members and bad members in Scientology, just like there is in any organization. And I can tell you that the people who work in Scientology are not there because they will get rich. They truly believe that they are helping people. While I never talked politics with them, I do know that they are for peace, for teaching people how to stand up on their own two feet and that man is basically good.

Their is much to value in their teachings, which btw, Hubbard did not invent, create or make up. You are always told that Hubbard studied all the religions and took the best of each religion and philosophy and put that in Scientology.

What I read in these anti-Scientology web sites is foreign to me. And I think that is what upset the guy on South Park (can't remember his name) if you poke fun of something that is true, that is one thing. But, South Park took what was on the anti-Scientology website as truth, and then twisted that.

Everything can be put in a bad light, if half truths and 'out of context' is the only thing that is made available. Add to that, someone who is what Scientology calls 'out ethics' and you have VERY bad PR.

zalinda

[Dorian Gray]

42. Have you read the site?

there are anti-christian, anti-Jewish and anti-Islam sites and links all the time! Always. Scientology is barely even mentioned here. Most of the mocking is reserved for us mono-theists. ;)

[zalinda]

44. That may be, but I don't agree with it.

I don't think you should bash someone's beliefs if those beliefs don't impinge on you. I don't like meanness in any way shape or form. Nothing is gained by bashing, but hard feelings.

If I don't believe in your God does that hurt my life? If I believe in your God does that better my life? Both answers are moot, as neither answer should effect you in the least.

I had always believed that liberals/progressives were tolerant, but that was before I started reading DU. My hippy outlook on peace and love among the liberals has been shattered. The people here can hate just as unjustly as any freeper. Too bad.

zalinda

[TRYPHO]

45. Its not bashing...its....educating

I don't think you should bash someone's beliefs if those beliefs don't impinge on you. I don't like meanness in any way shape or form. Nothing is gained by bashing, but hard feelings.

I don't think you should bash someone's beliefs, but I think you can educate them on their own religion.

People are SO ignorant, and I just enjoy sharing.

TRYPHO

[zalinda]

46. Why?

Do you appreciate it when "Right to lifers" picket clinics? How about carrying signs with mangled and aborted fetuses? They are just trying to educate you.

If it is their religion, it belongs to them, and not you. If it doesn't hurt you, you don't have the right or duty to "educate" them. As an adult, they have a right to choose what God or no god to believe in. By "educating" them, you are telling them they are too stupid to know what they want to believe in. How does that help? To me that just shows either ignorance or bad manners.

zalinda

[TRYPHO]

49. I've had a chance to think about this now and...

By "educating" them, you are telling them they are too stupid to know what they want to believe in. How does that help? To me that just shows either ignorance or bad manners.

Telling they are too stupid to know what they believe in?

No. I don't think so, though it could be construed as such if I was doing it in an offensive manner. Which I generally don't do. For example I have two (very) Christian staff members. We enjoy talking about Christianity/Judaism a lot. I will ask "where's your book of rules"? (I did the same here), I'll ask "who leads you when a decision is made?" (they are not catholic - and I asked that here too). I will ask them lots of questions and they tell me what they can (and DUers confirm or tell me the rest, thanks guys). But I am not rude in asking these genuine questions, and they certainly don't appear offended by my asking them.
Then as and when I come across something interesting about Christianity I enjoy sharing it with them, to see if they are already aware of it, and to have a discussion about it. So, for example, I might mention that the cross people wear was not the cross of the crucification, or that there are gospels of Mary, and Thomas, and a secret gospel of John, and one of Judas, and a gospel of truth and so on; or that there were two "disciples" called judas, but one was called Thomas, or that there is a Q-document of a book before Matthew and Luke, or that James and Jesus are probably not the James and Jesus mentioned in the Talmud, or that at the Nicene Creed I it was decided to accept the trinity and divinity of Christ Jesus, but before then it was argued generally against (?not so proven) or that Constantine converted for political not religious reasons, or about the amendments to late versions of Josephus, or almost any other early text or we'll chat about Judaism, the Talmud, Israel and current events. But I don't think that me saying these and many many others things is the same as me calling them idiots too stupid to know what they should believe.

And I also vehemently disagree that right to lifers are offering an educational perspective on the New testament. The new testament says nothing about abortion, and shouting one's personal interpretation of biblical quotes is not the same nor even similar to a discussion about the progression of the X and P letters of the Greek word Χριστοῦ which I assure you didn't result in bloodshed from either party.

Has my opportunity to offer you an education in to my perspective left you angry and hurt; did what I say make you think you are stupid and ignorant? Or is my intelligent discussion with you a sign of my mutual respect and understanding of your level of intelligence as I hope is my erudite and poignant prose :-)

I do want to engage your mind, in intelligent conversation. That might be construed as education if I should perchance inform you of some new information or perspective. But not all knowledge gained by way of education assumes the recipient to be a stupid idiot. Well, I certainly never do.

I am not sure if I should hope this has given you an insight in to my perspective or not :-)

TRYPHO

[Evoman]

24. Ahhh...bashing scientology....the only thing that can bring atheist and hypocrite religionists

together.

[More Than A Feeling]

25. It's somehow appropriate that the South Park tonight

was the episode where they made fun of chef after his voice (Isaac Hayes) quit the show over his perception that they were being unfair to scientology.

[Dorian Gray]

40. Thomas Cruist!

[MistressOverdone]

47. So when will he be crucified?