Paul Haggis denounces and exits Scientology church
Posted on October 26th, 2009 by Austin
In a move sure to ruffle the feathers of ongoing members such as Tom Cruise, Oscar-winning director Paul Haggis has quit Scientology.
With past credits including such box-office goldmines such as ‘Crash’ and 2005’s ‘Million Dollar Baby,’ which was helmed by Clint Eastwood, the 56-year old Canadian writer/director has broken all ties with the iconic church through a withering email now republished in full by Showbiz 411.
Addressed to the Church’s chief ‘Celebrity wrangler,’ Tommy Davis, the rambling message is filled with emotion, but outlines the two major reasons why Paul chose to leave; The first being their San Diego division’s stance on Prop 8…
“For ten months I have been writing to ask you to make a public statement denouncing San Diego.” he writes. “Their public sponsorship of Prop-8 shames us. The church’s refusal to denounce these bigots, hypocrites and homophobes is cowardly. Silence is consent, Tommy. And I refuse to consent.” Paul’s letter goes on.
And that’s not the only reason he decided to leave. Later in this wordy but fearless rebuttal he refers to the Church’s practice of so-called ‘Disconnection,’ which had forced his own wife [former 'Dallas' actress, Deborah Rennard,] to avoid both her parents, who had allegedly broken a minor Church rule…Two decades ago.
“While researching online I chanced upon an interview with you on CNN and saw you deny disconnection. I was shocked.” Paul explains. “My own wife was ordered to disconnect from her parents. They did not speak, and had limited access to their grandchilden. It was a terrible time. And you could laugh at the question. You could publicly state that it doesn’t exist,” he rightfully chides.
But it seems the experience was not all bad news, “The majority of Scientologists I know are good people who are genuinely interested in improving conditions and helping others,” Paul briefly recalls. “However, I have come to the conclusion that I can no longer be part of this group. With your refusal to denounce the church’s anti-gay stance, and the indefensible actions of those who condoned this behavior. I am only ashamed I waited this long to act.
I hereby resign my membership in the Church of Scientology.”
With that now off his mind, the Ontario-born director can focus on more worthy goals, such as the forthcoming crime-drama, “The Next Three Days” which stars Russell Crowe, and new US-native, the fine Liam Neeson. The three are now shooting in Pennsylvania for Lionsgate films.
We’ll let you know how all this plays out…
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