At the 2026 National Public Servants Dedication Service held this week in Port Moresby city, Reverend Matthew Tapus of the Christian Apostolic Fellowship urged Papua New Guineans to embrace a "total reset" in its public service and political systems for the nation’s long-term prosperity.

On Monday 12th January at the event held at the Sir John Guise Indoor Complex, Rev. Tapus said that while change may not happen overnight, adhering to the call for a reset would ensure a brighter future for the nation.

He stressed that the next phase of national development must be rooted in humility, dedication, and strong Christian values, drawing inspiration from the teachings of Jesus Christ.

"God has given us an abundance of resources, and we have everything it takes to make it happen for Papua New Guinea by the grace of God.”

"But for this to happen, we need a total reset in both the public service mechanism and the political will required at the beginning of this Jubilee year."

Referencing Psalm 127:1, Rev. Tapus reminded attendees that without God's guidance and watchfulness, efforts will be in vain.

He also highlighted the crucial role that both the public service and the clergy play in building a better PNG, with public servants as the laborers delivering the nation's goals, and the clergy serving as watchmen praying for the country's well-being.

"If we, as Papua New Guineans, call ourselves Christians, then we are on the right path."

Rev. Tapus stated, urging the country to remain steadfast in its Christian identity and values, especially as the nation has recently affirmed its status as a Christian country in Parliament.

Rev. Tapus also responded to critics who questioned the presence of the Bible in the halls of Parliament.

He reminded the audience that the Bible should be a guiding light in all institutions, including government decision-making spaces, emphasizing that the Word of God is eternal and should be respected in every sphere of life.

"If we want to remove the Bible from Parliament, perhaps we should remove it from our homes, hotels, schools, and mobile phones as well.”

He also addressed the importance of prayer and unity in leadership, urging church leaders to continue praying for the government and public service.

"We have a moral duty to uphold our government, to pray for the public service mechanism in place so that Papua New Guinea can become a better place for us to live in.”

Rev. Tapus reminded the audience that change requires patience and trust in God's timing.

He encouraged all present to keep faith, as the answers to their prayers may come in God's perfect time.