During the recent ICMA Annual General Meeting in Geneva, September 5-6, Dr. Jason Zuidema sat down with Deacon Ricardo Rodriguez-Martos and Jeronimo Dadin of Stella Maris Barcelona to discuss the ICMA World Conference, 6-9 October 2025 in Barcelona, Spain.
Why does Stella Maris, Barcelona wish to host the ICMA World Conference?
Deacon Ricardo: Well, I think it’s a great opportunity to show the people in the Port of Barcelona that maritime ministry isn’t just something specific to Barcelona or our ports, but it’s a global effort. We are working together—people from different countries and denominations. Despite our differences, we have something in common: a love for seafarers and the desire to help them with their needs. So, it’s not only about doing this job for seafarers but also showcasing, from an ecumenical point of view, how different churches can work together.
In your time with Stella Maris, some things have remained the same, while others have changed. When you introduce new programs or initiatives, how do you know if they will be successful?
Jeronimo: We don’t always know if a program will be successful, but we listen carefully. We’re always listening. So, by listening, we can understand what to do. When we take a step to offer something new, we ensure that we are prepared to maintain that service in the future. It’s not always easy to decide why we should or shouldn’t offer something, but we try to solve the challenges that arise. For example, a few years ago, we started offering SIM cards because we listened to what the seafarers asked for. Now we are offering parcel services. We never simply say no; we try to help in any way we can.
Why are partners important in seafarers’ welfare?
Deacon Ricardo: We can’t do everything alone. Our daily partners include ship agents, the harbour master’s office, ITF inspectors, and the port authority. Maintaining good relationships with them is crucial. For instance, when a ship arrives and encounters a problem, it might be resolved by the Port State Control inspector, an ITF inspector, or the port authority. Our role is to identify the best solution, and we spend a lot of time staying in touch with all our counterparts.
Why are you excited about the upcoming conference? You mentioned before that you were hesitant about attendance.
Jeronimo: Last night [in Geneva], after the sessions during the social part of the meeting, I spoke with everyone and asked, “What do you think? Will you come to Barcelona?” And they all said, “Yes, for sure!” I asked Matthias [Ristau of the Deutsche Seemannsmission], “Do you think 120 attendees is too many?” He replied, “We alone are more than 20 or 25.” So, at that point, I knew [the World Conference] was happening. People from Northern Europe said, “Everyone’s coming,” so I realized it’s a reality. A year or six months ago, when we started discussing it, I wasn’t sure, but now it’s confirmed. We just need to work on it now.
Why is Barcelona a great city to visit?
Deacon Ricardo: I think Barcelona has become a world-class city over the last 20 years, especially after the Olympic Games. Everyone loves to visit Barcelona. We have a great climate, rich cultural offerings, and excellent food. But beyond that, Barcelona has one of the most important ports in the Mediterranean, which makes it a fitting place to host the World Conference.
What do you think will excite attendees the most at the conference? What aspects might be the most interesting?
Deacon Ricardo: In my opinion, most people come to meet others from around the world. With ICMA, it’s always valuable to build these connections. I think that’s the most important reason people attend—meeting others. Of course, the location adds to the appeal. If the conference is held in a desirable place, it’s an extra incentive.
Thank you both, and thank you for agreeing to be the host committee for our upcoming World Conference.
Jeronimo: And God help us! (laughs)
For more on the World Conference see icma.as
