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From October 6 to 9, 2025, maritime ministry leaders from around the world convened in the vibrant port city of Barcelona, Spain, for the International Christian Maritime Association (ICMA) World Conference. Hosted locally by Stella Maris Barcelona, this unique gathering brought together approximately 250 participants dedicated to serving seafarers, fishers, and their families.

Held only once every four years—and this time following a six-year hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic—this conference offered a vital opportunity to renew relationships, share best practices, and encourage one another in the global mission of maritime ministry. Against the backdrop of one of the world’s busiest ports, attendees engaged in meaningful dialogue, explored emerging challenges, and strengthened their shared commitment to the welfare and well-being of those who work at sea.

“For the Seamen’s Church Institute, the conference represents both a leadership responsibility and an invaluable exchange of ideas…where informal exchanges with global peers often yield valuable perspectives on how SCI can enhance its own practices amid shifting geopolitical and industry landscapes.”

For the Seamen’s Church Institute, the conference represents both a leadership responsibility and an invaluable exchange of ideas. SCI’s President and Executive Director, the Rev. Mark Nestlehutt, who also serves as Chair of the ICMA Board, emphasized that the event provides “a chance for our organizations to share and gain insights on seafarer welfare and well-being via chaplaincy work and legal advocacy.” Beyond formal presentations, Nestlehutt also emphasized the importance of conversations “on the margins,” where informal exchanges with global peers often yield valuable perspectives on how SCI can enhance its own practices amid shifting geopolitical and industry landscapes.

The Rev. Mark Nestlehutt opened the conference with welcoming remarks and later moderated a panel discussion on fishers’ welfare. Other SCI representatives also contributed their expertise. Phil Schifflin, Esq., Director of SCI’s Center for Mariner Advocacy, participated in a session addressing the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC, 2006), which offered resources, insights, and strategies for improving seafarer welfare. Schifflin, along with SCI Chaplain the Rev. Dr. Bill Allport, also joined a panel on crew mental health, suicide prevention, and overall wellness, which moderated by Chaplain Allport. SCI’s delegation also included International Seafarer Chaplains, the Rev. James Kollin, Chaplain Michelle McWilliams, ISC Director Matt Morse, Esq., and Communications Director Evan Brown.

In his opening remarks, Nestlehutt urged participants to embrace unity and shared purpose: “This is our opportunity to connect and explore how we can collaborate—how we can focus on what unites us in our mission, rather than what sets us apart. How do we navigate change in ways that enhance and improve the lives of the seafarers and fishers we are privileged to serve each and every day? That is our unifying goal over these next few days.” In his message, the Rev. Nestlehutt emphasized the significance of the conference and its theme, “Navigating Change,” reminding participants that beyond the information and resources available to our organizations, the greatest asset for global maritime support and welfare agencies is our shared commitment—to remain connected, aligned, and steadfast in our common mission to serve the men and women who work at sea.