Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it. Hebrews 13:2
The mission of the usher at Saint Patrick is that of making parishioners and guests feel welcome and comfortable as we gather for our Eucharistic celebration. Our Ushers can see the presence of Christ in each person as they arrive.
One of the most important duties that the usher has is that of hospitality. The usher is the first person that worshipers meet when they arrive at church. The usher has the opportunity and the responsibility to represent the rest of the assembly in offering hospitality. People’s impression of a parish is significantly shaped by the presence or absence of a welcoming atmosphere where they come to worship. Offering a smile and a word of welcome can have a profound impact on people as they arrive. Ushers provide assistance in emergencies.
Those who desire to serve as usher should be active and faithful members of the parish. They should be of good character and reputation. Respect for others, discretion and appropriate decorum are the hallmarks of an usher. Above all, ministers should be noted for their care to the assembly. These qualities are found in a mature Christian - qualities that transcend chronological age.
Furthermore, the usher should be comfortable meeting and greeting others. They must always extend a sense of welcome to others and make them feel at home. Such qualities are a blessing, especially to the stranger in our midst.
Ushers provide the following for the parish:
Welcome parishioners and guests as they arrive, especially people who appear to be unfamiliar with the Basilica.
Assist in seating, especially guiding people with special needs and discreetly assisting latecomers at appropriate points in the Mass.
Collect the offering.
Helping the flow of the community as they come forward for Communion or other sacraments or events such as the veneration of the Cross on Good Friday.
Monitor the congregation during the service to see if anyone has a special need that requires assistance.
Record attendance count.
Hand out the weekly bulletin.
Handle medical emergencies, service disruptions, or church evacuations with firmness and composure.
Ushers are an essential part of our parish. This is a highly visible ministry, one where its members are dependable, hospitable, and gracious to all. This ministry is open to all adult parishioners.
Among the servants of God, ushers are called to play an important role in the Sunday gathering and celebration: serving those who assemble as the community of Christ. The ministry of ushers is a public commitment and awareness to Our Lord’s presence to the community. At Saint Patrick, the warm friendliness and open hospitality in being an usher during the Sunday Liturgy becomes an experience for the faith community. As ministers of hospitality to and for the community, ushers are able to make visitors feel welcome, and all to realize they are invited and comfortable.
For more information on this ministry; please contact [email protected]