As the nation marks another National Repentance Day, Rev. Dr. Jack Urame, Head Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea (ELCPNG), has issued a powerful call for genuine change in the way the country lives, highlighting the disconnect between the Christian values upon which the nation was built and the moral challenges it faces today. In a recent Facebook post from the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea, Rev. Dr. Urame, urged people to reflect not just on their personal lives but on people across the country. “The reality we see in our country makes me wonder if we truly have repented or changed our moral behaviour and truly live as Christians.” He emphasized that the country is experiencing moral decline at an alarming rate, with the negative outcomes of the nation’s moral behaviour becoming increasingly undeniable. “Violence in various forms is on the rise, tearing apart communities and families.” “Social instability, fueled by the abuse of drugs and alcohol, is further worsening these challenges.” “The theft of national resources and widespread corruption within high offices are draining the nation's wealth and undermining its progress.” “Dishonesty and greed are eroding the core values of respect, love, care, and justice, while the disruptive behavior of young people is undermining peace and harmony in many areas.” “Additionally, ethnic and tribal conflicts continue to spread, both in rural regions and urban centers, contributing to a growing sense of division.” “These issues, along with many others, are causing great suffering across the country.” According to Rev. Dr. Urame, true change must begin within ourselves. “When genuine repentance happens within us, change will also happen in our communities and country.” He called for a national reset, encouraging leaders to initiate a culture change in the areas of governance, resource management, and personal responsibility. "We must change the culture of greed and corruption, develop honesty, and be of service to others," he said. "We must change from the culture of stealing public money and focus on using resources for the development of our country." He also stressed the importance of fostering a culture of respect, honesty, and hard work. "We must change the culture of bribery, cheating, and dishonest business practices and live a noble life." He concluded saying that repentance is not a one-time act but a way of life.