"FREEWINDS"

Freewinds Courses

2010-08-01T21:25:00.000-07:00

I was thinking about doing some courses on the Freewinds. What a fabulous place to study. Perfect actually.

More about the Freewinds on Scientology.org.

WHAT IS THE FREEWINDS?

2010-07-31T09:39:00.000-07:00

The motor vessel Freewinds is a 440-foot ship based in the Caribbean. Its home port is Curaçao. The ship, in turn, is the home of the Flag Ship Service Organization (FSSO), a religious retreat ministering the most advanced level of spiritual counseling in the Scientology religion.>>

Every year, aboard the Freewinds, David Miscavige officiates a series of briefings to leading Scientologists aboard the ship. These are then made into individual DVD presentations and are shown at every Scientology Church and Mission around the world, one each weekend throughout the month of July.

At this year's Summer of Events, David Miscavige released a new book on film called The Problems of Work. This is a real breakthrough as it makes it possible for people to learn the most fundamental Scientology principles and apply them immediately to their lives.

More about the Freewinds on Scientology.org.

Yearly Celebration About to Begin

2010-06-18T11:21:00.000-07:00

As I wrote the other day, the yearly celebration of the maiden voyage of the Freewinds is about to being--a week or so from now, in fact.

It's a very intimate week, with David Miscavige briefing Scientologists who have reached the state of OT VIII (OT means Operating Thetan -- a state of being above Clear, in which the Clear has become re-familiarized with his native capabilities.)

Last year, in addition to releasing the Dianetics DVD and Dianetics seminar, Mr. Miscavige announced three new Advanced Orgs (Org stands for organization--the Scientology term for one of our churches). One is in Canada, one in Mexico City for all of Latin America and one in Africa. In the past, to travel up the levels of Scientology training and counseling someone from Africa or Canada would have to go through the hassle of getting a visa and living in a foreign country. It made it really nonviable to go for a short stay. Latin Americans had to travel to a country where Spanish is not the native language. So now this is all being remedied. These new churches will open in the next year or so and they are spectacular.

More about the Freewinds on Scientology.org.

Looking Forward to the Maiden Voyage

2010-06-16T11:14:00.001-07:00

Every year the Freewinds hosts a special week of activities in commemoration of the ship's maiden voyage in 1988, when New OT VIII was released.

Mr. David Miscavige is master of ceremonies and briefs the leading Scientologists from all over the world on the past year's accomplishments and plans for the coming year and beyond.

Last year the new Dianetics Seminar and Dianetics DVD was released, revolutionizing Dianetics and setting off a literal wildfire of Dianetics application all over the world (and in 50 languages!)

Here is a story on the most recent celebration, held in every Scientology Church and Mission, of the 60th Anniversary of Dianetics.

Scientology Churches and Missions Celebrate 60th Anniversary of Dianetics the Modern Science of Mental Health

Scientologists mark a new era for Dianetics at events in Scientology Churches and Missions around the world—tens of thousands attend.

Tens of thousands of Scientologists attended events in every Scientology Church and Mission this month. The outstanding Dianetics auditors, groups and booksellers in each zone were awarded in the celebration of the 60 years since the first publication of Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health by L. Ron Hubbard. The anniversary also marked the greatest expansion of Dianetics in history, with more than 4,500 Dianetics Groups around the world and record numbers of visitors to the Dianetics website from more than 20,000 cities in 214 nations. Since its first publication May 9, 1950, more than 21.8 million copies of Dianetics have been sold.

The Dianetics boom started in March 2009 when Mr. David Miscavige, ecclesiastical leader of the Scientology religion, announced the completion of a project to place Dianetics and 17 other hardback Scientology and Dianetics titles, published in 16 languages, in more than 97,000 libraries—every national, city and university lending library in the world. Then, to open the subject up to 90 percent of the world’s population, that same month Dianetics and eight other beginning Dianetics and Scientology books were published in paperback editions in 50 languages.

With Dianetics more accessible than ever in history, in June 2009 Mr. Miscavige released “How to Use Dianetics,” a film that revolutionized the subject. In four and one-half hours, the film covers the Dianetics book in such detail that those watching are able to immediately put Dianetics technology to use. As Mr. Miscavige announced to an international audience of Scientologists, “These films are not about Dianetics. Rather, they are films of Dianetics.”

The film is the centerpiece of the new Dianetics Seminar, offered in Scientology Churches, Missions and Dianetics groups on five continents.

At the seminar, with the guidance of trained Dianetics supervisors, attendees pair up to apply Dianetics to each other, using the information they have just learned. The book and film are so descriptive of Dianetics procedure, those living far from a Scientology Church or Mission can watch the film on their own, read the book and begin to use the technology at home, and many do.

The application of Dianetics technology to another is called “auditing” from the Latin word audire, “to listen.” “My last year has been a complete hell,” wrote one person who decided to attend a Dianetics seminar and receive auditing to sort this out. “I had so many things hidden inside. Now that I got everything off my chest, I feel extremely relieved.”

“I feel revitalized,” said another seminar participant. “I have much better understanding and compassion for people who are struggling with pain and loss on a daily basis and don’t even realize it.”

A significant aspect of the Dianetics seminar is that while receiving help, one learns to help another. “Wow! It was a great experience to assist someone to get through a painful event,” said an attendee. “To see the person brighten up is so amazing.”

With Dianetics gaining popularity from Katmandu, Nepal, to Kiisi, Kenya, and from Almaty, Kazakhstan, to Bergamo, Italy, last year a record-breaking 3.7 million hours of Dianetics auditing were delivered internationally. For more information on Dianetics or to order a copy of Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health, visit the Dianetics website.

More about the Freewinds on Scientology.org.

The Freewinds: Scientology's Religious Retreat At Sea

2010-06-15T13:29:00.000-07:00

The fully digital bridge of the Freewinds, with its state-of-the-art Kelvin Hughes Radar system, and its panoramic windows, enabling a 360-degree view.

The Freewinds began service as a Church of Scientology religious retreat in 1988. The 440-foot motor vessel provided a distraction-free environment for parishioners to study and experience the highest level of spiritual counseling available in the Scientology religion.

After the ship's first 20 years of service, she underwent a full refit and restoration.

The refit was the largest in her history. Far more than a cosmetic upgrade, the ship was stripped from stem to stern, below the water line to the top of her stacks—all six decks. She emerged a fully redesigned, technologically advanced vessel—the ideal religious retreat for ministering religious services.

In June 2008, Mr. David Miscavige was joined by the current and former Prime Ministers of the Netherlands Antilles in the Freewinds home port of Curacao to rechristen the Freewinds on her 20th anniversary and commemorate her Maiden Voyage as a wholly refit ship.

A video about the Freewinds can be watched on the Scientology web site.

More about the Freewinds on Scientology.org.

Take a virtual tour of the Freewinds!

2010-05-05T14:38:00.000-07:00

A virtual tour and more has been published on Scientology.org.
Take a look!

The Freewinds: Scientology's Religious Retreat At Sea

2010-04-09T13:56:00.000-07:00

The Freewinds motor vessel, which serves as the Church of Scientology's advanced religious retreat, was fully refit and redesigned in 2008, emerging a brand-new, cutting-edge vessel.

After the ship's first 20 years of service, she underwent a full refit and restoration.

In June 2008, Mr. Miscavige was joined by the current and former Prime Ministers of the Netherlands Antilles in the Freewinds homeport of Curacao to rechristen the Freewinds on her 20th anniversary and commemorate her Maiden Voyage as a wholly refit ship.

The new Scientology.org website features the Freewinds in a video. Watch it here!

Scientology Religious Retreat, M/V Freewinds Featured in Maritime Reporter and Engineering News

2009-11-14T10:30:00.000-08:00

A milestone Scientology project is featured in the October 2009 edition of Maritime Reporter and Engineering News—the complete refit and restoration of the Scientology Motor Vessel Freewinds. In writing the feature story, editor Gregory Trauthwein found the project so significant he dedicated his editorial to the ship as well, describing the passion surrounding this project and ship as “immeasurable.” “There literally was not a single detail spared in the complete rejuvenation of M/V Freewinds,” he wrote.

The Freewinds is home of the Church of Scientology Flag Ship Service Organization (FSSO), a religious retreat that delivers the most advanced level of spiritual counseling in the Scientology religion.

In addition to the impact of these renovations on the thousands of Scientologists who visit the ship each year, the sheer scope and attention to detail has set an entirely new standard for the cruise ship industry.

“The level of quality is incredible,” said Jon Rusten, COO and VP Development, Ocean Development Group, which oversaw the project. “Nobody can afford this level of quality anymore.”

Describing the project as “A magnificent ship renovation via elbow grease, heart and soul,” Mr. Trauthwein begins his article by stating: “In today’s ‘I need it yesterday’ world, emphasis on quantity often overpowers quality, while the quick fix can supersede the correct one. Step back, take a deep breath and enjoy the fruits of a tremendous labor, a labor of love.”

For the past 20 years the Freewinds has provided a distraction-free environment for ministration of the highest levels of Scientology religious counseling, far from the crossroads of the workaday world. The completion of these historic renovations extends its continued service in this capacity far into the future.

More information on the magazine's website

Freewinds - the swimming Church of Scientology

2009-10-24T12:57:00.000-07:00


	MV Freewinds, operating out of her home port in the Caribbean, far from the turbulent crossroads of the world, offers Scientologists the highest levels of spiritual advancement.

David Miscavige Briefing to Scientologists Aboard the Freewinds

2009-09-01T17:48:00.000-07:00

The Freewinds serves as the Church of Scientology's advanced religious retreat. The 440-foot motor vessel provides a distraction-free environment for parishioners to study and experience the highest level of spiritual counseling available in the Scientology religion.

In 2008, to celebrate her 20th anniversary, the Freewinds underwent the largest refit in her history. Far more than a cosmetic upgrade, the ship was stripped from stem to stern, below the water line to the top of her stacks, covering all six decks. She is a brand-new, fully redesigned, technologically advanced, cutting-edge vessel serving as a religious retreat for ministering religious services at the highest levels of Scientology.

For more information on the Freewinds and the Summer of Events held there and emcee'ed by David Miscavige, visit Freedom magazine

David Miscavige Tells of Scientology Expansion Aboard the Freeswinds

2009-08-31T19:09:00.000-07:00

Each year in June, top Scientologists from around the world assemble aboard the Sea Org Motor Vessel Freewinds religious retreat for the “OT Summit.” It comprises a week of briefings, seminars and strategic planning sessions presided over by Chairman of the Board Religious Technology Center, Mr. David Miscavige.

The Sea Org Motor Vessel Freewinds: Scientology’s Advanced Religious Retreat

2009-08-10T16:18:00.000-07:00

It is aboard the Freewinds Scientologists from six continents avail themselves of Scientology's most advanced religious services.

More about Scientology in Freedom Magazine

Do not forget: Maiden Voyage on the Freewinds for all Scientologists!

2009-06-22T18:12:00.000-07:00

Each year the Maiden Voyage of the MV Freewinds is celebrated by a very special cruise where Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board of Religious Technology Center brief's Scientologists on news of the expansion of Scientology. This year these events take place from 20-24 June 2009.

So Beautiful

2008-09-03T15:43:00.000-07:00

The Freewinds was totally refurbished in time for this year's Maiden Voyage Anniversary Event. David Miscavige gave speeches on 4 evenings of events that were shown in every Scientology church on the planet. My friends who were there for the cruise came back with stories of what an incredible experience it was.

Spreading the Word

2008-04-07T15:22:00.000-07:00

For a long time I've wanted a way to let people know why I am so passionate about Scientology.
So I'm really glad the new Scientology videos are online.

The thing is, there is so much to Scientology, I find it hard, trying to describe it. But with the video channel people can just look through what interests them and see how Scientology applies to it.

By the time you're though browsing through the video clips you start to realize - oh I see...it applies to every aspect of life.

And that's the truth.

Scientology Site -- What a Change!

2008-03-18T10:02:00.000-07:00

There's an awesome change to the Scientology web site. It's got tons of cool videos that tell what Scientology is all about.

I saw a bunch of these the last time I was aboard the Freewinds. I can't believe they are all online now. I've been hoping the Church would do this ever since I first saw some of the videos three years ago, and here it finally is!

Antigua

2007-01-07T21:56:00.000-08:00

Here's another magical port that the Freewinds visits -- Antigua.

Wouldn't you rather be THERE on this cold January day?

And not only there, but there and learning things aboard the Freewinds that will change your life for the better from now on?!!

These Scientology courses that are offered on the Freewinds are the most amazing things. They are based on tape recorded lectures by L. Ron Hubbard that are just chocked full of tips that make life so much more of a pleasure to live!

The Islands of the Caribbean

2006-12-17T21:40:00.000-08:00

Another beautiful image from Aruba.

Curacao: fascinating cobble of contrasts

2006-12-11T23:04:00.000-08:00

An interesting story on Curacao, the home port of the Freewinds:

WILLEMSTAD, Curacao — The fruit of the laraha orange tastes so bad even the island's wild goats don't bother it. I really don't blame them. But the peel — ah, that's a different matter.

Kathryn Clayton, Deseret Morning News

An example of highly detailed architecture of the building in Willemstad, Curacao. Structures must undergo frequent upkeep.

First, you use a wooden knife to cut the peel away and slice it into sections. It has to be wood; a metal knife would ruin things. You dry the peels in jute bags. Then, in a small copper still, you cook them until a clear liquid condenses. Color it, bottle it, seal it — everything's done by hand — and you've got the real thing, a liqueur that can only be made on Curacao, the original "Curacao of Curacao," so named to shame all pretenders.

Its old-fashioned bottles look better suited to sailors' grog: a long neck tapering up from a canteen-shaped bowl. They've gone around the world, these bottles have, each one an ambassador of this small Caribbean island, every sip an invitation: "Come and see us. Come and see us."

>> Continued

Rain in LA

2006-12-10T23:11:00.000-08:00

"Sunny" California is about to enter its grey stage.

My sister says that if we didn't have some winter (in other words some rain) we wouldn't appreciate the summer as much. I don't think that's true, though. I'd love it to be hot all year round.

IAS Event and London Grand Opening

2006-10-23T14:11:00.000-07:00

What a weekend in the UK! Not only was the IAS event held at Saint Hill, but the next day there were incredible seminars, Sunday was the Grand Opening of the Church of Scientology of London and today is the Charity Concert.

Anyone who went sure got their money's worth!

Here's a little news on the Grand Opening, that I got from religion4life blog.

David Miscavige Drives the Message Home about Scientology

"We are about to drive home the message 'This is Scientology ' like you have never seen," said David Miscavige , chairman of the Church of Scientology (sic.) [David Miscavige is actually the Chairman of the Board of Religious Technology Center.]

So reports Robert Booth on Saturday in the Sunday Times - a story that got picked up internationally.

And Sunday's grand opening was everything Mr. Miscavige promised.

The Scientology Press Office announces the news as follows:

With thousands of Scientologists, local residents and officials in attendance, the new Church of Scientology of London opened its doors.

Mr. David Miscavige , Chairman of the Board of the Religious Technology Center and leader of the Scientology religion , stressed the historical importance of London. "This is the city L. Ron Hubbard himself [founder of the Scientology religion] selected as home to the first Scientology organization. This is also the city wherein he first defined the human spirit as an immortal being possessed of capabilities beyond anything predicted, and so arrived at the axiomatic truths on which the whole of Scientology is founded. Your early London organizations were also the original proving ground for the bulk of Mr. Hubbard’ s social betterment programs which are used to uplift neighborhoods just like this one."

Thorsten Overgaard

2006-10-20T15:39:00.000-07:00

I ran across this page of Thorsten Overgaard's web site yesterday and found his entire site on the Scientologists who went to South Asia After the Tsunami

It's a beautiful site -- a recommend a visit.

"Freewinds" Adds a Special and For Free

2006-10-17T16:28:00.000-07:00

I found this story on the web site of the St. Lucia Mirror:

People paused while looking over the line up of performers for the 2006 St. Lucia Jazz Festival.

Of course, there were the superstars like Al Green and Seal, with the younger ones such as Ciara and Rihanna making their mark on the music scene. Then there was one unusual act, the Freewinds Band.

There were whispers and questions. “Is that the band from the ship, The Freewinds?” many asked. Some wondered what the producers of the festival were thinking. A cruise ship band on the main stage for the Jazz Festival? Would they entertain the crowd with Karaoke-like songs and come dressed in the usual tropical getup of Hawaiian shirts and Bermuda shorts while singing ‘Feeling hot, hot, hot’?

Instead, the band came on stage after Rihanna did her thing and instantly ended all speculation and questions about their position in the Festival. With multi platinum recording artist John Novello leading the group, the Freewinds band had the crowd moving from the start. Two female vocalists including Dominican Michele Henderson added to the great performance of the ensemble. So, no, these guys were not at all a karaoke sounding cruise ship band. Not only did the Freewinds band add something special to Saturday mainstage, but also they did it all for free. Yes, unlike other performers, the band was not paid for participating in the show.

Ludwig Alpers, the Port Captain of the Freewinds, spoke to the MIRROR earlier this week to explain why. The Freewinds, which is described as not the smallest cruise ship but the biggest yacht, has been sailing to St. Lucia since 1988. Alpers explained that the crew was committed from the beginning to not only be involved economically with St. Lucia , but to also contribute something to the community, charities and culture.

“Last year, we were here for the festival and the Chamber of Commerce took a gamble on us and allowed us to perform during Jazz on the Square. We had a great performance last year and this year the festival was part of the ship’s itinerary so we contacted the Tourist board so we could put something together for the mainstage. We really wanted to contribute to the festival,” explained Alpers.

The band performs over 200 concerts a year and invites artists from all over the world to join for months at a time. Most performances are done on board but many times the band takes part in shows in countries where the ship docks. Novello, who played on the ship during the Christmas season, headlined the band for Jazz.

“We wanted to contribute to the 15th anniversary of the St. Lucia Jazz festival and we really wanted to say thank you to the St. Lucian people. So we said let’s do it complimentary and we put a lot of time and work into it. We also brought in Michele ( Henderson ) who performs with the band about three months out of the year. We really felt honoured to be part of the festival,” said Alpers.

The band has performed in many festivals around the region but feels that St. Lucia Jazz is the best one, especially because of its longevity and diverse locations.

Barbados

2006-10-16T21:25:00.000-07:00

Jamaica

2006-10-15T21:22:00.000-07:00

The Freewinds occasionally visits Jamaica too.

Just another island paradise.

Okay everyone in Buffalo. Don't you wish you were here this weekend?

Martinique

2006-10-14T19:02:00.000-07:00

Quite a far cry from Buffalo, eh?

Bonaire

2006-10-13T21:08:00.000-07:00

Imagine looking out your porthole to see this in the morning!

Bonaire is a frequent stop for the Freewinds.

Bonaire

2006-10-11T21:52:00.000-07:00

Bonaire is anothere paradise of an island, part of the Netherland Antilles, which is one of the regular ports for the Freewinds.

Is this chilled out or what?

2006-10-09T23:00:00.000-07:00

I just ran across this picture in Google Images.

It looks like a postage stamp with a picture of the Freewinds.

Anyone know what this is about?

Aruba

2006-10-08T22:48:00.000-07:00

Friends of mine told me how they went scuba diving off the coast of Aruba the last time they went to the Freewinds.

Imagine, having the best Scientology training in the world, in an idylic environment, and being able to go scuba diving too!

(Plus the food is the best!)

Description of the Freewinds

2006-10-05T10:25:00.000-07:00

Scientology Today (the Scientology News Site) has a very good description of the Freewinds.

"A |unique Church of Scientology is the Flag Ship Service Organization — located aboard the Motor Vessel Freewinds, a 440-foot ship based in the Caribbean. The ship was acquired in the mid-1980s shortly before the release of the highest advanced auditing level now available. Needing a safe, aesthetic, distraction-free environment appropriate for ministration of this level of auditing, it was decided to return to the sea, far from the crossroads of the workaday world.unique Church of Scientology is the Flag Ship Service Organization — located aboard the Motor Vessel Freewinds, a 440-foot ship based in the Caribbean. The ship was acquired in the mid-1980s shortly before the release of the highest advanced auditing level now available. Needing a safe, aesthetic, distraction-free environment appropriate for ministration of this level of auditing, it was decided to return to the sea, far from the crossroads of the workaday world."

But you have to experience the Freewinds to really understand it.

It is by far the friendliest, safest place I've ever been too.

I always look forward to my visits to the ship with great anticipation, and come home with my "spiritual batteries" completely recharched.

Curacao

2006-09-18T01:22:00.000-07:00

Curacoa is the home port of the Freewinds.

It is a beautiful island with such an interesting mix of European and Caribbean.

A great site to visit for more information about Curacao is http://www.curacao.com/

Such a special ship

2006-08-30T23:25:00.000-07:00

Most Scientologists who go to the Freewinds come back home with the same impression of the ship. It is the most remarkable place because there is absolutely no counter-intention. I other words everyone agrees completely that everything good you wish to have happen for yourself, your family, your groups, your nation, your planet --- will come off.

And it really bolsters up your ability to simply make the physical universe comply with your intention!

Freewinds Website

2006-08-20T22:31:00.000-07:00

Now check out this website http://www.freewinds.org/index.html.

There are some gorgeous shots of the Freewinds on this site that I hadn't seen before.
Makes you just want to get up and go!

More on the Jazz Festival

2006-08-19T20:55:00.000-07:00

"Many people paused while looking over the line up of performers for the 2006 St. Lucia Jazz Festival. " Is the opening line to this article: http://www.stluciamirroronline.com/2006/may19/story14.htm

Wish I had been there!

The Freewinds Choir

2006-08-13T22:05:00.000-07:00

I bet you didn't know that the "Freewinds" has its own choir!

This is actually a very musical ship - I have previously covered some of the Jazz Nights they have had.

The Freewinds is a fun place to be.

Hot

2006-08-11T22:31:00.000-07:00

I remember when I was in Curacao aboard the Freewinds.

It was totally comfortable on board.

But that region is HOT!

I was there in September. And it was about as hot as I'd ever want to be!

Scientology Today

2006-08-08T22:53:00.000-07:00

On a website called "Scientology Today" it also has a page dedicated to the description of the motor vessel Freewinds. There are actually many pages on this site that people wouldn't know about, it is definitely worth checking out. It has a site map so that makes it easier to look around on.

Scientology Anti-Drug Campaign

2006-08-05T15:38:00.000-07:00

Also featured in the event held aboard the "Freewinds" was the release of booklets designed for drug education and drug prevention use. This is the beginning of a world-wide push to let people know the dangers of drugs and so they don't get fooled.

The booklets themselves are colorful and the information they contain is well researched. There are facts and personal experiences that show how disastrous drugs are to a person's life.

Part of the campaign is being forwarded by a group called the "Drug-Free Marshals" and at the event the actions they are taking all around the world were described in detail. These booklets are being made available to the general public for use.

Both this campaign and the human rights campaign (mentioned in an entry earlier) were covered in detail by the guest speakers, who were introduced by Mr. David Miscavige who emceed the event.

Anti-drug events and activities are covered in the Scientology News.

A MEMORABLE MUSICAL CONCERT On board M.V. "FREEWINDS"

2006-08-01T14:10:00.000-07:00

I found an article on te Freewinds band today:

Camella Helene, lead singer with the FREEWINDS band captured the audience with her relaxed easy style, her melodious voice and the songs she selected which were favourites of the audience as well.

"I will always love you,", "R-E-S-P-E-C-T",

"Step by step, stone by stone", and ''Loving you forever''

were among the songs that had the audience handclapping, foot tapping and crooning along with the singer - and all were enjoying themselves immensely. It was easy to see that the singer enjoyed her craft and was at home and happy to practice it with this audience.

It was also easy to see why Los Angeles singer Camella Helene is up for video awards and why she has toured with international singers like Michael Bolton among others.

But the enjoyment of the evening also came from the very accomplished band whose members each hailed from a different part of the world. Just how accomplished they are, was easily seen when time came for them to go solo with their instruments. The electric guitar ''wailed'', the keyboard notes flowed harmoniously and with seamless effort; the bass guitar ''gutted'' out its notes and the drums and cymbals interspersed their dodging beats and crescendos!. Well you would have to be there to know what I mean. >>

Human Rights Event

2006-07-25T20:05:00.000-07:00

Another exciting event was held on the Freewinds recently and relayed for Scientologists around the world to see. This event was hosted, as is usual, by Mr. David Miscavig e.

Incorporated into this event was a DVD with a difference; The United Nations Human Rights Declaration is not something most people know well as so a very impacting example of each of the 30 points is enacted on this DVD.

Also released were properties to educate parents and youth on the dangers of drugs, as part of the Churches of Scientology's anti-drug campaign which was kicked into high gear with this event.

All an all a very exciting event!

Another Site about Freewinds Jazz

2006-07-19T19:23:00.000-07:00

Here's another cool site about the Freewinds Jazz Festival -- this one with photos from the 2004 event.

Here's the poster

And some photos of performers and audiences having a great time...

Freewinds Jazzy Carnaval

2006-07-19T18:58:00.000-07:00

I just saw this great poster on last year's Freewinds Jazz Carnaval.

Stacy Francis was the featured artist. She is such an amazing singer and performer. I've seen her live about five times and each time I forget what a wallop she packs.

There's more information about the Freewinds on www.bonafidescientology.org

More on the Maiden Voyage

2006-07-17T20:36:00.000-07:00

I've been attending the Maiden Voyage events and each one has been incredible.

Three weeks ago David Miscavige gave an overview of the activities Scientologists are doing all over the world to expand their churches.

Two weeks ago we found out that 48 new Scientology missions were opened in towns and cities all over the world, and we also saw the plans for new Scientology churches in Orange County, Pasadena, Torino, Venezuela, Atlanta... there were more but I just can't remember them all.

Then last weekend we learned all about the Scientology anti-drug campaign and what Scientologists are doing to guarantee human rights. The Church of Scientology International recently helped Youth for Human Rights International create 30 public service announcements that illustrate all the rights laid out by the United Nations in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. We were shown five of these ads at the event and they were so beautiful and so clear and so compelling. They take the subject, which is communicated in very dry, almost legal terms in the Universal Declaration, and turn it into something I believe will communicate to anyone who sees it.

Three of these PSAs can be downloaded from I Tunes (search I Tunes for "Youth for Human Rights")

I always love the briefings David Miscavige gives at these events, and these have been the best I've seen so far!

Freewinds Conventions

2006-07-06T00:13:00.000-07:00

There is constant entertainment about the Freewinds, with artists from all over the world.

Also, every week there are conventions of various kinds where Scientologists gather to make plans for improving their communities or their careers. They span the whole gamut, from how to accomplish the most with the Scientology Anti-drug campaign in an area where drugs are a real problem to the community, to how to expand the activities of a particular Scientology church, to how to become more successful as a singer, there is Scientology technology that applies to improving any condition.

And being on the Freewinds is just so much fun!

Freewinds Maiden Voyage

2006-06-26T19:09:00.000-07:00

The 18th anniversary of the Maiden Voyage of the Freewinds just took place. Each year this is celebrated by a very special cruise where Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board of Religious Technology Center brief's Scientologists on news of the expansion of Scientology.

It is a very special summit of some of the most active and dedicated Scientologists in the world. They come here from their churches -- from churches in the US such as the Church of Scientology of Tampa and the Church of Scientology of San Diego, and from as far afield as Russia, South Africa and and Australia.

Afterwards, DVD recordings of the events are shown to all Scientologists in their own churches.

This coming weekend, July 1st, will be the first of the Maiden Voyage events at the Church of Scientology of Los Angeles and it will be shown in other Scientology churches the following weekend.

I always find Mr. Miscavige's presentations to be very inspirational and I'm really looking forward to going.

A FREEWINDS' Article

2006-04-27T11:06:00.001-07:00

An interesting article about the Freewinds in the Barbados Advocate

"The Business and Professional Women (BPW) Barbados, held their annual candlelight ceremony on Thursday, April 6, honouring the countless contributions of their membership across the globe in one of the largest women's groups on the planet. ...

"On board the MV Freewinds in the Bridgetown Port, several members of the diplomatic corps. including American Ambassador Mary Kramer, Cuban Ambassador, Jose Portela and featured speaker, Her Excellency, Corina Russian, Venezuelan Ambassador to Barbados, to name a few, gathered for this event of international magnitude. "

DAVID MISCAVIGE - GUEST SPEAKER ON THE FREEWINDS

2006-04-04T16:56:00.000-07:00

The Freewinds hosts many events throughout any given year - it has become a popular spot for both Scientology and public events with guest flying in from all over the world.

At least once a year Mr. David Miscavige, Chairman of the Board Religious Technology is guest speaker at Scientology events held on the Freewinds. The topics Mr. Miscavige speaks about cover Scientology expansion news, Scientology Volunteer Minister activities, progress being made in the Church's human rights campaigns, and many other subjects embracing the Scientology religion's influence in society.

In the five decades since the establishment of the first Church of Scientology in 1954, Scientology has become an integral part of this culture. Throughout the world the Scientology religion has steadily expanded in the last 50 years, from one church to 3,700 churches, missions and groups in 156 countries, serving millions of parishioners in 54 languages.

Mr. David Miscavige has also been guest speaker at many grand openings of Churches of Scientology around the world, and the Freewinds' staff is always honored to have him aboard.

The Free Winds Band

2006-03-01T21:57:00.000-08:00

Here's an excerpt from a terrific article.

Freewinds Band being making a number of free concerts in St. Kitts on the cruise ship "Freewinds" and at different location here on the island. It being going on for four weeks long and shows been going great.
The Free Winds Band has performed for 100s of thousands of people all across the Caribbean. They have performed with such stars as Chick Corea, Edgar Winter, Maxine Nightingale, John Novello, Billy Sheehan, Mark Isham, David Pomeranz, David Campbell, Amanda Miguel, Diego Verdaguer, Felipe Gil, Johnny La Boreal, an many other International celebrities and local favorites from all over the Caribbean.

They have appeared internationally on TV and Radio and one of their live recordings was one of the top requested songs of the year on the island of Aruba. In recent years they opened for Oleta Adams at the St. Vincent Blues Festival. They have performed countless charity and benefit concerts for groups such as the Rotary, Kiwanis and Lions clubs as well as the Red Cross and various youth, sports and social betterment organizations, as well as giving countless free outdoor concerts and performing at dozens
of local schools. >> more

More information on many of these entertainers can also be found on the web site of the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre

Freewinds Conferences and Volunteer Work

2005-10-05T11:04:00.000-07:00

I may have mentioned that the "Freewinds" motor vessel is also used as a venue for many conferences and seminars throughout the year.

These events are very focused on enlightenment and inspiring people to go out and help their fellows. Everything from drug education to human rights and more recently the hot topic of concern has been the Hurricanes down in the South. Hundreds of Scientology Volunteer Ministers were activated and on the scene.

Conferences such as those held on the Freewinds give Scientologists the opportunity to meet with others who also want to participate in activities that are going to help their fellows in society.

LIBRARY BENEFIT ABOARD THE FREEWINDS

2005-04-06T17:45:00.000-07:00

The International School of Aruba held a Libary Benefit Evening aboard the motor vessel Freewinds. This web site mainly has photos of the evening's activities, showing many of the people that contributed to this successful event.

How Jazzy can a Boat get.

2005-01-25T17:22:00.000-08:00

Aboard the Freewinds, all sorts of entertainment is hosted.
One of the favorites is Jazz. There are photos here of the festival held on the ship and people just enjoying themselves immensely.

And here is another gorgeous photo of the Freewinds at Sunset.

Now for you Russian folks, there is a Russian web site about the Freewinds and also this great page of photos

This site has a mention of the Freewinds but covers numerous subject.

"Freewinds" Virtual Tour

2004-10-11T22:33:00.000-07:00

You may not make it to the Caribbean any time soon and the chances of you being at the same port of call as her may be limited. Therefore, so that you can still have a tour and see this beautiful vessel, the "Freewinds" has provided a virtual tour for you to see it from exactly where you are. So here is the virtual tour of the motor vessel "Freewinds"

And here is some more information.

2004-09-21T09:56:00.000-07:00

The "Freewinds" frequents many different ports in the Carribean:

Freewinds Schedule for Bonaire

Bridgetown Cruises: Freewinds Schedule

"Freewinds" - Ship Facts

Cruise Ship Schedules for 2004 with a gorgeous photo of the "Freewinds"

The Freewinds and the Scientology Religion

2004-07-14T11:51:00.000-07:00

The "Freewinds" motor vessel, while providing numerous community services to the local Carribean islands, is a religious retreat for members of the Scientology Religion.

It provides a haven to get away from day to day problems and be in an environment where one can concentrate on one's spiritual progress. Delivering the Scientology spiritual counseling to those who seek a higher awareness of themselves and their abilities.

The Freewinds is refered to by Scientologists as the Flag Ship Service Organization

This motor vessel is kept in excellent condition as she sails to and from her home port of Curacao and more photos of the Freewinds can be seen here. Other ports she takes her passengers to are beautiful Bonaire and Barbados.

"FREEWINDS" PORTS OF CALL

2004-06-30T17:53:00.000-07:00

The "Freewinds" travels around the Netherlands Antilles islands visiting many of them on a frequent basis. Their home port of Curacao is of course a favorite, but there are many other locations they stop in at. Here are some cool sites that show the different places.

CURACAO:

Curacao

Jazz Activity

BONAIRE:

Bonaire Cruises

BARBADOS:

Anniversary Cruise

Nation News

Freewinds Schedule

A New Article on the Freewinds

2004-06-21T16:52:00.000-07:00

Hot off the press is this very informative article about the "Freewinds" community activities.

To quote just a paragraph from the article, as it may disappear (some Internet news articles only stay up a day or two) from nationnews.com:

"FOR 15 YEARS the MV Freewinds has helped local charities and exposed schoolchildren to the world of the sea, and on Sunday, officials of the cruise liner will stage a boat parade and musical extravaganza near the Flour Mill, at 2 p.m."

The Assistant marketing manager of Barbados Port Inc., Freida Nicholls, is mentioned in the article and mentions that the cruise liner "Freewinds" was part of the educational outreach programme.

The "Freewinds" in 2003 had approximately 1,000 school children visit to help educate them on life at sea.

In the hopes that this story stays up:

Nationnews Article on the Freewinds

I just found some other cool articles as well, one might be a duplicate, but they are interesting.

Pomp, Pageantry Marks Freewinds Celebrations

Freewinds to Host Concert

Introduction to the "Freewinds"

2004-06-11T19:35:00.000-07:00

I mentioned the Freewinds in some of my other web logs, however, I decided that this beautiful vessel is worthy of a blog of her own. So here is some basic information and I will update this as I have interesting news and stories for you.

The Motor Vessel "Freewinds:"

Freewinds

The Freewinds, operates out of her home port in the Caribbean, away from the crossroads of the world, offers Scientologists the highest levels of spiritual advancement.

The Freewinds serves as an international meeting place, holding religious conventions and seminars for Scientology staff and parishioners.

This motor vessel also serves as host to many local activities, concerts, meetings and numerous community shows.

Here's a few links showing this:

Freewinds Jazz

Freewinds Jazz Concert

Freewinds Curacao Jazz