Hi,

I'm a student studying journalism in the UK, and I'm about to embark on recording a semi-documentary style program for my final year radio project.

It's about Scientology, the Church of Scientology- what they're about, what they practice, how they recruit... and also what those who oppose them think about them. This is going to involve me interviewing various people who actively speak out against them- I'll be speaking to some Anonymous members their rally in Manchester tomorrow, as well as my own mother, who the Church attempted to recruit when she was a student.

I only properly started my research about the Church and their practices yesterday, and I have to admit I'm a little scared of what might happen. I've heard many stories of journalists being followed, blackmailed and harrassed by the Church, if they view them as a threat - from what I've already read on Clambake, L Ron didn't like journos.

Despite me only being a student, and despite the fact that my research and resulting radio package won't ever be broadcast... should I be worried? Are they likely to view me as a threat?

I'm hoping someone can answer this, as I really want to cover this topic, but I just want to know what I can expect if I rattle their cage.

Hi, Clockwork. Welcome to the board.

I wouldn't worry about being harrassed. I would say the chances are slim, as they have much bigger fish to fry right now. They seem to focus on whomever they consider to be the biggest enemies at the moment, and there are a lot of people taking them on, including some top ex-members, and some celebrities.

Worst case, you might see some handlers at the protest, but even that is doubtful, as they seem to have given up on that.

Good luck with your project.

Clockwork, be sure you are legal in every way - no skeletons in the closet. CoS punished one picketer by publicizing he was in the country illegally.

They probably won't full on fair game you, like Glibby said. They just have too many problems these days to deal with an art students video. But be careful though. Talk to people around you in advance just in case.

I suspect much may depend on how good your film is and what it manages to capture.