The First Church of Scientology was established in Los Angeles, representing a critical moment in the development of Scientology as a formal religious organization. Founded by L. Ron Hubbard, an American author and philosopher known for his science fiction and self-help writings, the church aimed to introduce a comprehensive framework based on his teachings, primarily encapsulated in his 1950 book 'Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health'. The ideas presented in this book laid the groundwork for what would soon develop into the Church of Scientology, which combines spiritual elements with a psychological understanding of the human mind. The church appealed to an audience seeking alternative spiritual paths in post-war America, aligning with the era's inclination towards various self-help movements and new religious expressions.

Establishing the First Church also provided a physical space for followers to gather and practice their beliefs. This was a departure from Hubbard's earlier activities, which had included informal meetings and dissemination of his writings through various means. With the creation of the church, Hubbard could systematize practices like auditing, a core activity in Scientology meant to facilitate personal spiritual growth. The church quickly attracted a range of adherents, including many from the arts and entertainment sectors, who found resonance in Hubbard's philosophy. As the 1950s progressed, the organization would expand, further embedding itself in American culture and generating both interest and controversy.

The establishment of the First Church laid the groundwork for a global network of Scientology organizations, with the church eventually expanding its reach to numerous countries. The church's practices and beliefs sparked debates and criticism, especially regarding its status as a religion and its methods. Nonetheless, the establishment of the First Church marked the consolidation of Scientology's growing influence as a distinct spiritual movement. It also initiated a series of legal and social challenges that the church would face in the years to come as it sought to gain legitimacy and recognition as a religion.