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.