As an usher at Old First, one of the special joys I experience, is meeting and greeting people. For me, this is a special ministry. My welcome is genuine, and I try to set a relaxed tone for worship. For me, greeting every single person who comes to worship is awesome. As an usher, my role is to make sure the sanctuary is prepared so the service flows smoothly and seamlessly. Occasionally, there are a few hiccups, but not to worry. I learned from “the best,” Jim Dyer. He explained all of the various things that need to be done in advance, and how to do them, as well as the timeliness of preparation for the service. As an usher, I am available to the pastor and the congregation throughout the service. I have served, and continue to serve in other positions in the church, but serving as an usher gives me an immediate feeling of satisfaction and joy.
This ministry is not labor intensive or time consuming. One is asked to serve as head usher only one Sunday each month. There are usually one or more volunteers willing to help, if needed. These are the things that must be done before and after worship– set out the brass with candles, make sure the candle wicks are long enough for the entire service, keep a record of the number of people in attendance in the attendance binder, check the Friendship binders in the pew to be sure there are pads and pencils, make sure there are envelopes and electronic giving cards in the pockets on the back of the pews. The head usher recruits 4 people to collect the offering, and a young person to serve as acolyte. Ushers stay after the service is over to collect church bulletins for recycle, and put the brass away. The sheets from the Friendship pads are collected. (Usually, several people help with this task.) The last thing to do is take the basket with recycled bulletins, attendance binder, and sheets from the Friendship pads to the office.
We are looking for people who are willing to be a part of this ministry. If you are unable commit to one Sunday every month, we appreciate any amount of time you are willing to serve. We need people who are willing to step up in case of emergency. Please say a prayer, and if you are interested, speak with me, Greta, or Yiwola.
Greta Stewart
