Scientologists have begun barricading their churches in response to a viral TikTok trend where teenagers 'speed run' into Church of Scientology buildings in the US. The trend, which involves running as far as possible into the churches before security intervenes, has sparked police investigations and calls from critics to stop.
What Is 'Speed Running' Scientology?
The term 'speed running' originates from gaming culture, meaning to complete a task as quickly as possible. In this context, Gen Z users burst through church doors, knock down rope barriers, leap over chairs, and blow air horns while filming themselves. Most attempts target the same Hollywood church in California.
Origins of the Trend
The trend began last month when TikTok user @5.0arrodo posted a now-deleted video of a teen artfully dodging church guards and reaching a staircase inside the Scientology centre in Hollywood. The caption read: 'Maniac 16 year old infiltrates the Church of Scientology.'
It gained momentum when 18-year-old content creator Swhileyy uploaded a clip of himself jogging past security, ducking under a woman's arm, and pushing through an exit door in under a minute. Swhileyy told The Hollywood Reporter the stunt was unplanned; he ducked inside after meeting a Scientology critic outside the information center on Hollywood Boulevard.
Legal Concerns and Police Involvement
Police are investigating at least one speed run as a potential hate crime involving battery after a staff member was knocked to the ground, according to KTLA. An LA local posted on X that three Scientology buildings in Hollywood have removed their door handles, writing: 'They are under siege.'
Swhileyy later said: 'I do not condone what I did, even though I didn't break any laws. All I did was explore the building. I was never asked not to come back.'
Criticism from Former Scientologists
Leah Remini, a former Scientologist and vocal critic, urged people not to carry out raids. She said on Instagram: 'I spent decades on the other side of this, and if I had been confronted by people running through Scientology buildings and harassing me or staff, it would have pushed me further into Scientology. That is because Scientologists are deeply indoctrinated and radicalised and believe they are helping people.'
What Is Scientology?
Scientology is a secretive religion founded by science fiction writer L. Ron Hubbard, often accused of being a cult. Followers believe humans are fundamentally good but held back by negative memories from past lives. Through teachings revealed gradually, members can reach a state called 'clear', enabling clear thinking and spiritual engagement. Practices include 'auditing', a counselling session with an 'e-meter' device. Critics allege mistreatment, human trafficking, and embezzlement, which church officials deny.
The Los Angeles Police Department and the Church of Scientology have been approached for comment.
