In the Oxford Dictionary, there are two meanings to the word “Usher”. The first is a noun: A person who shows people to their seats. That’s a good and accurate description. But, there is a second
definition for the word as a VERB: To cause or mark the start of something new.
Have you ever considered that definition? Have you ever heard or read a story of a person who, walking into a Church out of despair or just habit, encounters someone who greets them… and welcomes them… and ignites a new hope, a new joy and a new reason to return? Ask anyone who works or volunteers in a Church, and they will tell you that they have. Yes. Ushers direct people to their seats. Yes, they also “pass the basket” at collection time. But they do so much more:
They are the first face a visitor sees entering the Church.
They are the ones who teach the children how to participate in the Offertory.
They are the custodians of the Gifts at the entrance of the Church, that which will become the Body and Blood of Christ.
They are the guardians of the doors of the church when the lost decide to express their discontent at the Church’s teachings.
They are protectors, our fathers and our teachers…
And it only takes one hour a week.
Please consider taking the first step. Be the VERB, the start of something new.