Usher Ministry

Usher Ministry

Contribute to the needs of the holy ones, exercise hospitality.
(Romans 12:13)

"All are welcome in this place"

Contact:
Patrick (Pat) Gaglione

Mission
To promote a culture of hospitality and facilitate a welcoming atmosphere at St Thomas More

Major Activities 
Ushers warmly greet all who enter the church, offer assistance, answer questions, and give directions. Ushers direct the offertory collection during Mass and distribute bulletins as people exit the church at the end of Mass.

Ministers can serve in one or both of the following:

1. Greeting/Seating ministers see the presence of Christ in all who enter and endeavor to make them feel welcome and comfortable as the Community gathers for Eucharistic celebration or a funeral liturgy. With a welcoming smile and warm hello, minsters greet incoming parishioners and visitors, provide assistance with directions, and distribute bulletins after Mass. Ministers remain attentive to the back of the church during Mass to assist latecomers or those who need special seating. They open the rear, wooden doors at the end of Mass (and during Mass if needed), assist anyone needing directions, and direct the Communion procession during large liturgies or special events.
2. Collection ministers distribute offertory baskets to collect the gifts offered by the congregation. After each Mass, two, unrelated Ushers log and secure the collection donations. The passing of collection baskets at Mass is a reminder to all present that Christ asks us to share His gifts of treasure given to us by Him so that we, as intentional disciples, can continue to do His work in the world.

Major Accomplishments
In 2023, we completed a training session for new ushers. The first official class since St Thomas More's Return to Jerusalem initiative (post COVID).

Meeting Frequency
Because this ministry functions around Mass times, there are few outside meetings except for annual or periodic gatherings to review procedures.

Meeting Venue
Activities occur at the church, before, during and after Masses.

Estimated Time Commitment for Volunteers
Approximately two Mass assignments per month.

Special Skills
None in particular; just a desire to be welcoming and of assistance.