As PNG experiences a spate of natural disasters across several regions, and recovering from recent violent activities, and going through political challenges, Prime Minister James Marape is confident the country will persevere if everyone learns to coexist peacefully and respectfully, letting go of grudges and embracing a path of compassion and understanding.
In a heartfelt Easter message, he urged as the role of Christians, forgiveness and repententance and respect for rule of law, must be practiced to emulate Christ’s love and care for one another and for all to reflect on the selfless sacrifice for mankind Christ made by dying on the cross.
“At this point, we continue to have our own fair share of challenges, like every other country on Earth.”
“Unemployment, under-development and lawlessness are our biggest challenges at the moment.”
“Your government continues to do its utmost best to assist all of you in all parts of our country, including the Special Region of Bougainville.”
He highlighted how the essence of this sacred season is to unite in harmony as a nation of diverse tribes.
“To practice love, forgiveness and compassion means respecting each other’s rights; it means respecting the Rule of Law and abiding by the law.”
“These are easy acts to do and costs nothing for the doer, yet achieves great results for our society as we learn to live with each other.”
“This Easter, I remind us all of the core values of Christianity that the Easter occasion comes around every year to return our attention to.”
“Let us not just adopt Christianity but live as Christians.”
“Whilst Government has full responsibility to make our country better physically, we must work on bettering ourselves mentally and emotionally.”
“Our individual characters shape Papua New Guinea in a much deeper way.”
“When we change our attitude and the way we think and do things, we shift our country into one of peace, tolerance and respect for people – a place of peace and prosperity.”
“Only then can we triumph as a nation.”
“Blessed Easter to you, my people of Papua New Guinea.”
“I also share special blessings to all our guests from overseas who are in PNG this Easter.”
” The only eternal God whose Son Jesus Christ died in Israel in year 31 AD loves you too as Papua New Guinea loves you.”
“I wish you all a blessed Easter filled with peace and joy.”