New York City, 1 September 2006 : A parade of flags representing 50 countries participating in the 23rd World Federation of Therapeutic Communities World Conference ( WFTC ) was a stirring and befitting statement of dignity importance of this gathering. Deputy President WFTC , Mr. Charles Devlin chaired the Conference called for a roll call of the countries represented and it quickly become apparent that the World Federation of Therapeutic Communities is truly a global community.

Monsignor William B.O’Brien , President WFTC , a loving and familiar figure to all in attendance, provided the opening address. Keeping with his usual style, the Monsignor welcomed the participants with humor and inspired us with both historical perspective and vision for the modern TC.

Reminding us of the Chinese proverb regarding a journey of 1000 leagues, Mmsg. O’Brien reminisced of the 1974 Bangkok Meeting of the International Council on Alcohol and Addiction, which solidified the need for a World Organization. The early WFTC Conferences in Sweden and Rome set the stage for future gathering around the globe.

The road ahead, Monsignor William B. O’Brien’s words inspired the group by highlighting the condition that both created the TC movement and are necessary for its continued growth. Innovation, adaptation and creativity.. He asked that the Conference model New York’s historical role and be a gateway for concepts that offer hope and healing. The TC’s “ Mento” also warned that the road ahead has forks and we must seek the road, often less traveled, that is the true path to harm reduction, the road to recovery self-discovery and personal growth.

One light many lamps, Monsignor William B. O’Brien reminded us that we have come a long way in thirty-one years and that we will continue the journey and light the way for others by offering hope and healing.

In closing , Mr. Charles Devlin welcomed the approximately 700 hundred participants to New York and asked us to celebrate our journey and accomplishment by not forgetting our roots. He also emphasized that the healing power of the TC lie in the connection to other and compassion and honesty that challenges us to face our behaviors. Speaking for the Organizing Committee, Mr. Devlin wished the participants a productive conference and enjoyable time in New York City.