The Salvation Army's International Programme Resources Consultancy Group, involving representatives from nine countries and International Headquarters (IHQ), convened in London from October 31 to November 4.

Discussion centred on the challenges and opportunities relating to the group's worldwide ministry involving development projects, child sponsorship, disaster relief and recovery, health, education, social justice and communications.

Consultancy group members presented an analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) concerning their section or department. The SWOT analysis submissions highlighted patterns of shared challenges and also revealed opportunities for departments to assist one another in solving difficult situations.

Other sessions focused on organizational capacity building, positional statements on international development, a theological framework for development, the role of The Salvation Army's International Social Justice Commission at the United Nations and community disaster preparedness.

The International Secretary for Programme Resources Commissioner Gerrit Marseille said, 'It was a worthwhile time spent together reflecting not only on our shared goals and mission objectives, but also on the challenges that a global mission faces today. As we are partners in mission we need to keep exploring the ways in which we can better coordinate our efforts.'