Church of Scientology blasts TikTok ‘speed running’ trend as viral videos circulate
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LOS ANGELES — A Church of Scientology building in the heart of Hollywood removed its door handles and restricted public entry this week after a bizarre social media trend prompted young people to rush inside and race through its halls.
Videos of the trend, some of which have picked up millions of views on TikTok and Instagram, feature participants recording themselves “speed running,” as if in a video game, through Scientology’s buildings in Hollywood. They are often seen dodging screaming church members and security guards until they are ultimately escorted out.
Scientology is a fiercely private religious group that follows the teachings of founder L. Ron Hubbard and has celebrity adherent, including A-list stars like Tom Cruise and John Travolta.
The church slammed participants in a statement Wednesday, accusing the “speed running” participants of “trespassing, harassment and disruption of religious facilities.”
“Over recent weeks, individuals have repeatedly forced their way into Church properties on Hollywood Boulevard, disrupted religious and public facilities, damaged Church property, and endangered staff, parishioners and visitors,” the Church said.
Turning its spaces into “targets for viral stunts is not journalism, protest or civic activity,” it added.
Read more https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/church-of-scientology-blasts-tiktok-speedrunning-trend-rcna342747
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