The Catholic Bishops Conference of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands is calling on the country to remain united in order to continue building the nation this 51st Independence Anniversary.

In an Independence message, CBC General Secretary Father Lawrence Arockiaraj said September 16 marks the beginning of Papua New Guinea’s journey towards its centenary of independence.

He said what the country will look like when it reaches 100 years of independence will depend on the choices made by citizens today.

“Our journey has not been without its struggles. We continue to face the challenge of ensuring that national progress and development is not only reserved for a few, but reaches every corner of our society, especially the vulnerable and marginalized.”

He said Papua New Guinea’s diversity and resilience remain important strengths as the nation progresses.

The General Secretary called on citizens to stand together as one nation under God, saying faith and love for one another can help preserve national unity.

He also urged Catholic faithful to work with others to build a nation founded on peace, honesty, respect and integrity, while recognising the dignity of every person.

“Let us recommit ourselves to building a nation where God is at the Centre of everything we do, where peace and justice prevail, and where every citizen is valued.”

Father Arockiaraj said citizens and Christians have a responsibility to guard the nation’s independence, which he described as a gift from God.

He concluded by wishing Papua New Guinea a blessed, peaceful and grace-filled Independence Day and called for God’s blessing on the nation.