Stay safe, show love

STAY safe, show love to the less fortunate and reflect on the important message of Christmas — is what Prime Minister Peter O’Neill wants citizens to do during the festive season.
He said the birth of Jesus in a manger in Bethlehem more than 2000 years ago was the start of a new era for mankind.
“In our communities, our churches and in our family homes, we celebrate the birth of our Saviour,” he said.
“Through our Christian faith we celebrate goodwill, and we share a belief in doing the right thing.
“As we celebrate this festive season, I ask you to please also spare a thought for people who might be spending Christmas alone. Invite them into your homes to share the spirit with you.”
He said there were always a lot of accidents during the season of good cheer.
“So we ask everyone to be careful. Look after each other, and set an example for those around you,” he said.
“Christmas is also a time to reflect on our own lives, on our families and our friends.
“It is a time for us all to look at the contribution that we make to the people around us.”
He acknowledged the contribution of churches to national development.
“Our churches are the cornerstone of our communities, and we (Government) will continue to strengthen our partnership,” he said.
“We live in an amazing country.
“Papua New Guinea has more potential than almost anywhere else in the world.
“We are blessed with diverse cultures, and we are rich in resources.
“But to reach our best, we have to believe in ourselves, and we have to believe in all that we can achieve.”
On behalf of the Government and his family, O’Neill wished the country a merry Christmas and a prosperous 2018.