Teenagers are participating in a viral TikTok trend called 'Scientology speed running,' where they sprint into Scientology buildings worldwide, leading to police intervention and condemnation from the church. The trend, which began in Los Angeles, has spread to the UK, with large gatherings in London, Manchester, and Edinburgh. Critics argue it undermines peaceful protests, while the church calls it trespass and disruption of religious spaces.
A viral TikTok trend has sparked a wave of coordinated 'speed runs' through Scientology centers across the UK and globally, drawing large crowds of teenagers.
The trend, which originated in Los Angeles, involves groups of youths sprinting into Scientology buildings in different directions, attempting to reach as far inside as possible before being escorted out by staff. Social media posts have advertised gatherings in the UK, with one TikTok post calling for a 'Scientology of London speedrun' on May 9, urging participants to bring as many people as possible.
Another post suggested using Lime bikes to break into the buildings, while a Snapchat message about a London event on May 2 encouraged attendees to bring face coverings and GoPros. Around 100 people, some wearing balaclavas or costumes like dinosaur outfits and cat masks, descended on the main Scientology center near Blackfriars in London, where they were met by City of London police.
A 16-year-old participant traveled four hours from Carlisle to join the trend, stating he wanted to be part of something. Footage on TikTok shows hordes of teenagers sprinting through London streets before attempting to enter the church. Similar speed runs occurred in Deansgate, Manchester, and South Bridge, Edinburgh, last weekend. Greater Manchester Police increased its presence in response to the trend.
The Church of Scientology condemned the actions as trespass, harassment, and disruption of religious facilities, stating it welcomes lawful visitors but not mobs forcing entry or damaging property. Former Scientologist Alexander Barnes Ross criticized the trend, arguing it undermines peaceful protests and risks giving the church an opportunity to reopen cases against demonstrations.
The trend began on March 31 when a TikTok user named Swhileyy dashed through the lobby of a Scientology building in Los Angeles, gaining 90 million views before deletion. Imitations followed in New York and Vancouver. Some participants claimed they wanted to learn more about the church, while others dressed as Minions and joked about searching for Tom Cruise, a prominent Scientology member.
A Church of Scientology spokesperson dismissed the trend as individuals seeking social media attention, emphasizing that their facilities are peaceful spaces for parishioners and visitors. Police Scotland reported no major incidents in Scotland, while Manchester police addressed a minor, isolated event
Tiktok Trend Scientology Speed Running Teen Protests Religious Disruption Social Media Stunts
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