Church usher
In many denominations of the Christian Church, a Church usher (not to be confused with church greeter) is responsible for seating guests and maintaining the order and security of services. The role of a church usher is typically a volunteer position, and in the past was often considered one of honor, particularly if a church committee selects an usher by a nomination.
History[]
The concept of an usher is not new. In the Old Testament, there were positions addressed as "Doorkeepers" or "Gatekeepers", and their roles were very similar.(2 Kings 22:4) (1 Chronicles 9:17-27) (Psalms 84:10)[citation needed]
Jesus' disciples could be considered ushers, in the sense that they:
- Prepared the way for Jesus
- Kept order among those listening to Christ
- Served food to the audience
- Cleaned up after a service, such as the Feeding of the Five Thousand.
Organization[]
Churches often have a group of people that work as ushers led by a head usher. The ushers typically receive their instructions from the head usher. The head usher receives instructions directly from the pastor and is responsible for training and scheduling ushers.[1]
Dress[]
Traditionally ushers wore three piece suits. In most contemporary churches, a more casual dress style has become acceptable.
Duties[]
The church usher has various duties. Depending on the church's denomination, size, and preferences, ushers may perform some or all of the following:
- Seat guest
- Collect the tithes and offering
- Distribute communion
- Keep order at the entrance of the sanctuary
- Distribute bulletins and service programs
- Handle disturbances
References[]
- ^ "Church usher manual". www.pastoralcareinc.com. Retrieved 2017-07-06.
External links[]
Look up usher in Wiktionary, the free dictionary. |
- Christian worship roles
- Christian religious occupations
- Ushers
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