Christmas message

He thanked them for working in partnership with his office to progress PNG’s industrial hub. 

In his Christmas message, Rosso said: “My beautiful Lae City, with its vibrant and dynamic community, plays a crucial role in the tapestry of our nation. 

“Your hard work, dedication and spirit contribute significantly to the progress of Papua New Guinea. Let us continue to work hand in hand, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration that will propel us toward a brighter future. 

In his Christmas message, the Head Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of PNG (ELCPNG), Reverend Dr Jack Urame, said the birth of Christ reveals God’s love for us and for all mankind.

“It is Good News that gives us new hope and a new perspective on life beyond our present world. It is comforting news that helps us to see ourselves beyond the grave into a life that is much more transforming and rewarding than the present life.

“God reduced himself for our sake and came to the world through his Son, Jesus Christ.

He admitted that this year has been a difficult one for the average citizen, but emphasised on the need to re-evaluate our lives and move forward.

“I’d like to take this time to wish everyone in Papua New Guinea, and especially my people in my home city of Lae, merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

“It’s been a hard challenging year. We’ve just come out of the elections. It’s been a challenging year for all of us, especially our ordinary citizens.

The Prime Minister was speaking from Mussau Island in New Ireland Province, where celebrations are ongoing to mark the 90^th Anniversary of the arrival of Seventh Day Adventists and the gospel on the island, before reaching the rest of the country.

“2021 has been a very hard year, but by the Grace of God, you have lived through 2021. Wherever you are, put God first and treat you wife, your children, your family, your community with love and respect, care and kindness.

He was speaking to thousands of people during Christmas Eve Mass in St Peter's Basilica at the Vatican.

"You may have mistaken ideas, you may have made a complete mess of things... but the Lord continues to love you," the Argentine pontiff said.

This will be interpreted by some as a reference to Church scandals, including sex abuse, our correspondent says.

Pope Francis will return to St Peter's Basilica later on Christmas Day to deliver the traditional papal message to the world.

“As Governor of our capital city, chairman of our municipal Government, NCDC and Member of Parliament representing our Port Moresby City, I want to thank all our city residents for ensuring a very peaceful, drama free Christmas period,” Parkop said.

“No arrest was reported. No drunkenness was reported and everyone celebrated Christmas quietly and peacefully.

“This is a major achievement for the city. A record after so many years and I salute and commend you all. Congratulations for achieving this milestone in the history of our City. Well done.”

Volunteers, carers, community workers and good neighbours are unsung heroes whose quiet dedication makes them special, she will say.

This was what Prime Minister Peter O’Neill said in his Christmas message to the country.

“This is a time for families and friends, and to give thanks for all the good that we have in our lives.

“Christmas is also an important time when we can put aside our differences, and share in the goodwill of our communities.”

The PM says ours is a Christian nation, built on Christian values and governed through care and compassion for our fellow men, women and children.