An Usher performs a service of hospitality and welcome at all worship gatherings. He or she greets the members of the assembly as they arrive and assists them in finding seats. Ushers are responsible for taking up the offertory collection, and generally providing assistance as the need arises.
Why are they called Ministers of Welcome & Hospitality?
Ushers have as their most important function the welcoming of the people as they arrive for worship services. They are responsible for helping those with physical limitations find seating; they greet and welcome visitors and new parishioners; they answer questions and give directions. A Christian community must be above all else a welcoming community.
The Letter to the Hebrews reminds us: “Do not neglect hospitality, for through it some have … entertained angels.” (Hebrews 13:2.)
What are the Responsibilities of an Usher?
The weekend or Sunday Mass, as with most of the ministries, is the greatest area of responsibility for an Usher. Ushers help with seating, take up the collection and coordinate the presentation of the gifts during the offertory.
Is there a Special Training to become an Usher ?
More than most ministries, that of Ushering involves a great deal of on-the-job-training. The key ingredient for a good Usher is a welcoming, friendly attitude. Being an Usher requires an out-going personality and being responsive to the needs of those attending worship services.
Who may Become an Usher at the Divine Mercy of Our Lord Parish?
Any Catholic who has been Baptized and is an active registered member of the parish, is eligible to be an Usher as long as they will be available to fulfill their ministry as assigned. Training here at the Divine Mercy of Our Lord Parish is usually in late August or early September. Assignments are usually only a couple of Sundays each month. All commissioned ministers in our parish are asked to act as Ministers of Welcome and Hospitality every time they attend Mass or worship services whether they are specifically assigned to function that time or not. We are all called to offer help and welcome to those who come here.
”The harvest is abundant but laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.”Matthew 9:37