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From 11th to 14th May 2006, Barcelona is to host the "22nd Congress of the International Federation of Catholic Medical Associations" (FIAMC). Numerous doctors from all over the world are to gather in our city to address the challenge of poverty in the global era.
As Archbishop of this diocese, I find it extremely satisfying that this International Federation has chosen Barcelona as the venue for its Congress. It gives me great pleasure to extend a warm welcome to all those attending this International Congress who, hailing from all corners of the world, will be our guests in this city. I trust their stay will be both enjoyable and conducive to their work at the Congress. The diocesan community is aware of the ecumenical significance of this gathering and wishes to open its arms and embrace in a spirit of communion all those taking part in the Congress.
This diocese offers its joy and satisfaction to all the doctors participating in this International Congress through the testimony of the love of God and of the infirm expressed by the doctor and priest Dr Pere Tarrés i Claret, recently raised to Sainthood by John Paul II, on 5th September 2004.
I also hope and trust that this International Congress of Christian Doctors in Barcelona will, in turn, be an opportunity to reflect on the presence and the mission of the Catholic Church in contemporary society, following the teachings of the recent encyclical of Pope Benedict XVI God is Love, in which he has reminded us that "there will never be a situation where the charity of each individual Christian is unnecessary, because in addition to justice man needs, and will always need, love." (No. 29)
When reiterating my warmest welcome in the name of the Archdiocese of Barcelona to those participating in this Congress, I congratulate FIAMC for the profoundly social and Christian meaning they have given to this Congress and I pray that God will bless it with bountiful fruits.
+Lluís Martinez Sistach
Archbishop of Barcelona
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