OUR MISSION: 

The mission of the ushers and greeters at St. John’s is that of hospitality.  We try to make our parishioners and guests feel welcome and comfortable as we gather for the Eucharistic Celebration.  We hope that our ushers and greeters will see the presence of Christ in every person as they arrive.

QUALITIES OF AN USHER:

This ministry is open to men, women, senior citizens, parents and teenagers of the parish.  Ushers are friendly and dependable people who welcome all into the church.  They handle emergency situations with courage, compassion and composure. Even when performing menial tasks, the usher shall remain dignified and realize the importance of their service to the parishioners and clergy of the church. 

DUTIES:

The ushers perform the following duties at each Mass by:

·                     Maintaining the climate control system during Mass (setting of thermostats and ceiling fans)

·                     Placing the Eucharistic gifts from the Sacristy on the small table under the choir loft

·                     Greeting parishioners and guests as they enter the church

·                     Assisting in the seating of parishioners and guests

·                     Selecting a family or group to make the Offertory presentation (bring gifts to the alter)

·                     Taking up the 1^st and 2^nd collections with baskets

·                     Handling any emergency situations that may occur with courage and composure

·                     Wishing everyone a good day/evening at the conclusion of the celebration of Mass

·                     Cleaning up the church after Mass, collecting excess bulletins and papers left behind in pews 

TIME COMMITMENT:

Usually about 1½ hours per each Mass served, which includes: arriving 15 minutes prior to Mass for set up, approximately 1 hour for the Eucharistic Celebration, and 15 minutes following Mass to assist with clean up of pews.   Ushers and greeters do not need to work every weekend, as a schedule can be developed to alternate weekends (if needed).   Two (2) meetings per year should also be planned (one just before Christmas and one just before Easter).  

CONTACT: 

Usher Coordinator:    Allen Settle      Phone: (301) 475-8112 (home) or (301) 481-0291 (cell)

                                                            Email: asettle@stmarysmd.com