By DONNA KEATING

LAPLACE – Galen Bernard, a section manager for the Federal Reserve Bank, is involved in encouraging River Parishes area youth. He serves as youth pastor at New Wine Christian Fellowship Church in LaPlace.

As youth pastor, Bernard preaches to and encourages young people to understand the meaning of life. He believes the young people of the community need affirmation and direction to become who God created them to be.

“Because of the lack of fathers in the home, it is part of my responsibility as youth pastor to provide leadership, guidance and encouragement,” said Bernard. “I have worked with young people for the past 17 years. Most of my time is spent encouraging youth by giving them alternatives to life with gangs or getting into trouble.”

In addition to providing spiritual guidance, the church’s youth group offers young people the opportunity to play games, such as, billiards, ping pong and video games on Saturday nights. The group is also sponsoring a canoe trip at Hattiesburg, Miss., for teen-age boys.

“Our young people must catch the vision that they can make a difference in their world. They are not only the leaders of tomorrow, they are the leaders of today,” said Bernard.

Bernard, a native of Reserve, lives in LaPlace with his wife, Dolly Bernard. In his spare time, he enjoys playing basketball and tennis and also enjoys fishing.

Anyone interested in joining the New Wine Christian Fellowship Church youth group should call 653-0008.

Editor’s Note: Each Saturday, L’Observateur will feature an article about a special River Parishes’ resident and the good works associated with the person.

If you would like to nominate someone, contact Robert Roan at 985-652-9545 or send an e-mail to lobnews@bellsouth.net.