By David Vitrano
L’Observateur

LAPLACE – Weekends at Place Du Bourg retirement home in LaPlace have been a little more lively recently thanks to a new ministry aimed at feeding its residents’ bodies and souls.

Spearheaded by the Rev. Otis Scott, who is also a resident there, the ministry is called Jesus Servant Quarters Feeding Ministry Outreach.

“I’ve been stirred to do it,” said Scott. “These people eat five days a week, but on the weekends they have nothing to eat.”

So he and a group of local volunteers got together and decided to do something about it. For the past few months the group has prepared hot meals for the home’s residents. On a recent Saturday, the offering was potato stew, salad, peas, cake and ice cream.

The meal, however, is in some ways merely the catalyst for bringing together the residents so they can share in something greater.

“We hope to show them love that they will grab a hold of it and keep it going,” said Scott.

As lunches are served, Scott uses his considerable voice to stimulate the residents’ minds as they share the meal prepared for them. Sitting at a pair of keyboards and a microphone stand, Scott sings lively religious songs that often inspire residents to sing along, wave their arms and even get up and dance.

Then when everyone has eaten and the music stops, Scott shares scripture readings with the residents.

Scott said he has been inspired to create this ministry by other area preachers, including Pastor Neil Bernard of New Wine Christian Fellowship.

Quoting the pastor, Scott said, “Whatever the Lord puts in your heart to do, go and do it.”