Ushers

Responsibilities

  • Before the Mass
    • Try to arrive 15 minutes before the mass and be dressed appropriately as you will be representing the Church and playing a part in the mass.
    • Tidy up the narthex. Remove or arrange any papers that make the space look messy.
    • Assist any disabled and elderly people.
    • Turn on lights and fans then adjust the fans, windows, etc. in the Sanctuary, if necessary.
    • Make sure guest book is open to current page
    • Make sure that all pews have hymnals and prayer books
    • Make sure the Sunday bulletin and offertory plates are available
    • Greet and distribute bulletins to all those who enter the Sanctuary
  • During the Mass
    • Be alert for sercurity reason
    • Know where the fire extinguishers are
    • Direct latecomers at appropriate time – preferably NOT during a prayer or in the middle of a reading. It is best to enter the Sanctuary when people are beginning to sit or stand, or during a hymn.
    • Collect offering during the singing of the offertory hymn
    • Direct people during the communion
    • Count the number of people including children as they come in or either while collecting or standing at the back. Record attendance on the attendance slip.
  • After the Mass
    • Pickup any bulletins, papers and other garbage left in the Sanctuary
    • Check for any lost items. If any are found, bring it down during the coffee hour and look for the owner or place it in the lost and found box.
    • Turn off lights, fans, sound system, close windows, etc. if necessary
    • Two ushers remove the offering collected and place in the church safe location in the sacristy or hand it to the offertory counters assigned for the day.
    • Insert the completed attendance slip in the service found in the sacristy.
  • If during the mass something irregular should require your attention, handle it with tact and common sense. If someone requires medical assistance, direct someone to call 911 if necessary and in the meantime, find a nurse or a health care worker from the congregation to help.