KINGNEWSWIRE // September 2024, devastating floods struck the Jeseníky region of the Czech Republic, displacing thousands and causing widespread damage. Scientology Volunteer Ministers mobilized quickly, cleaning over 120 buildings and helping 200 families return home in under two weeks. For their incredible 3,000+ volunteer hours and dedication, they were honored at the Ğ Awards in Prague. Known as the “Yellow Angels,” their contributions went beyond physical aid to provide spiritual and emotional support, embodying the principles of compassion and humanity.
The catastrophic floods devastated the Jeseníky region of the Czech Republic, leaving thousands of residents displaced and in urgent need of assistance. Homes were submerged, infrastructure was damaged, and communities were left grappling with the overwhelming task of recovery. Amid 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 Ğ Awards
The Ğ Award recognizes patrons and benefactors in the fields of culture, charity, science, education, and moral values within and beyond the Czech Republic. This accolade highlights acts of generosity and commitment that inspire others to contribute to society. On Wednesday, January 8, 2025, the 24th annual Ğ Awards ceremony took place at the National Theatre in Prague. The Ğ Award (“Ğ” stands for “Thank You” in Czech) was presented to the Scientology Volunteer Ministers for their extraordinary contributions in the aftermath of these devastating floods. The group cleaned over 120 buildings in less than two weeks, provided spiritual and emotional support, and helped approximately 200 families return to their homes sooner. Their collective efforts totaled more than 3,000 volunteer hours.
In the “Life and People” category, the award was given to David Macoun, who led a group of over 120 Scientology Volunteer Ministers to assist residents in the Jeseníky region severely affected by flooding. Under his leadership, the group not only helped restore access to over 1,000 homes but also brought comfort and stability to the community.
Their success, as stated by Macoun, was rooted in teachings inspired by L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Scientology, who once said, “If someone dislikes the crime, cruelty, injustice, and violence in this society, they can do something about it. They can become a VOLUNTEER MINISTER and help civilize society, bringing it conscience, kindness, love, and relief from suffering by instilling trust, decency, honesty, and tolerance”.
Richard Langer, the founder and organizer of the Ğ Awards, praised the group’s dedication: “These are individuals from all walks of life, 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 embraced by the residents of Písečná and Nová Ves in the Jeseníky region. Beyond physical labor, they provided emotional and spiritual support to individuals grappling with loss and uncertainty. This included offering “assists,” a form of individualized aid rooted in Scientology principles designed to help people cope with challenging situations.
Their efforts also earned them the Public Choice Award, an honor determined by widespread public appreciation for their invaluable contributions.
Ivan Arjona, Scientology’s EU and UN representative, commended the volunteers for their dedication and the recognition they received. He said, “The acknowledgment of the Scientology Volunteer Ministers at the Ğ Awards reflects not just their tireless efforts in Jeseníky but also the universal values of compassion and service that we stand for. This recognition is a testament to what can be achieved when individuals come together to help those in need, embodying the principles of humanity and solidarity on which our programs are built.”
Michael Kurdík, one of the leaders of the Scientology Volunteer Ministers, expressed the group’s philosophy during his acceptance speech: “It is our mission 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 should help one another. That’s what a functioning society does.”
The Volunteer Minister Program was launched over 30 years ago in response to a call by Scientology’s founder, L. Ron Hubbard, to address declining ethics and morality in society. As Mr. Hubbard noted, “If someone dislikes the crime, cruelty, injustice, and violence in society, they can do something about it. They can become a Volunteer Minister and help civilize society, bringing it conscience, kindness, love, and relief from suffering.”
Through their dedication and actions, the Scientology Volunteer Ministers have demonstrated the impact of collective goodwill and resilience, setting a remarkable example of humanitarian service.
