Ushers

The General Instruction of the Roman Missal counts among the liturgical ministries “those who, in some places, meet the faithful at the church entrance, lead them to appropriate places, and direct processions” (GIRM 105). The usher is the first face a visitor sees at St. Patrick’s, and a kind, calm, well dressed man at the door says more about this parish than anything printed in the bulletin.

The usher’s service has 3 parts:

• Hospitality: welcome everyone, help them find a seat, and keep the church reverent.
• Watchfulness: notice what is happening in and around the church, and tell the head usher.
• Response: in a medical emergency, a fire, or a disturbance, get people to safety and call 911.

Ushers are not security personnel. In keeping with the guidance of the Archdiocese of Portland, parish volunteers do not provide security services; the usher’s part in any emergency is to care for people and to summon the professionals whose job it is.

Ushers are 18 or older, appointed by the pastor, and physically able to perform the duties the protocol describes. Each usher completes the Archdiocesan criminal background check through the parish office and signs the Archdiocesan Standards of Conduct; both renew every 3 years. New ushers meet with the Usher Coordinator for training and a walk through of the protocol, the building, and the equipment.

Documents for ushers:

• Usher Ministry Protocol & Quick Reference