Q&A for How to Usher in a Church

You should start with shaking hands and follow the lead of the visitor. If they come in for a hug, then it is ok.

It depends on whether or not they have responsibilities during prayer. Follow the lead of the other ushers to determine what you should do.

Of course an usher should be a born again Christian. When you are an usher, you are not only serving people, you are also serving the Lord. Ushering is a work of the Lord, you can't work for God if you are not born again.

An usher must be able to know all members of a church. This will enable the usher to know first timers and be able to possibly detect thefts. Not being a member of the Church makes it difficult.

No, the main doors are not meant to be unattended. When the usher at that spot is tired, he/she switches position with another usher. The main door must not be left unattended to except the service is over.

At the door, always stand up straight; no one wants to see an usher slouching. Try to keep a smile on your face and give off an energetic, happy vibe. Your job is to welcome people into the door, so try to look welcoming!

No, ushers don't need to close their eyes.

You should hold the plate in front of you with both hands. It should be about level with your bellybutton.

Just stand up straight and bow your head. You can close your eyes if that helps you concentrate.

It depends. If there are a lot of seats near the middle, sit there. The front rows are usually for the pastor and his family and the worship team. If they are not one of these people, seat them anywhere. Guests with special needs, or those who are physically disabled should be seated in an aisle seat.

No; chewing gum in church can be seen as disrespectful, especially when you are "on duty" for the church. After all, you wouldn't see the priest or pastor chewing gum while delivering the service. If you're concerned about your breath, try a mint or breath strip instead.

Here is what to search for (it is for the Roman Catholic Church): *Catholic Ushers Handbook* (it will and should be the first result when searched. If it is not, then look for the link that says "Guidelines for Ushers and Greeters"). This next one is for the American Lutheran Church: (The "American Lutheran Church" is different from the "Missouri Synod Lutheran Church" and is also different from the "Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod" Here is what to search for: Lutheran Ushers Handbook (It will or should be the first thing that pops up when you search this. If it is not, then click the link that says "media1.razorplanet.com").

At my church, ushers are usually always standing, But they kneel when the rest of the church does.

It depends on the church and religion. In general, you are required to wear a suit and tie, and you will be given a nametag. Always wear church-appropriate clothing (dress shoes, a tie, a suit, and a suit jacket along with dress pants that match the color of the coat).

Your usher clearly does not respect the seriousness of the job he holds, as he is not only disrespecting his fellow ushers but the Lord as well! Have regular meetings with all of the ushers and make sure to discuss conduct while on the job. Ask that they leave all smartphones in a safe place during service.

The age of the usher does not matter as much as the spiritual maturity of that person. So if you have any young men or women who have strong relationships with the Lord, they are as viable candidates as their more aged peers.

Less is best when it comes to ushering. Remember that ushering is a ministry, not a club. Keep jewelry tasteful and to a minimum.

Yes, a woman can usher with full due respect. If the girl is responsible enough, then it's acceptable.

No more than once a month unless it's a case of sickness, an emergency or work schedule changes.

Yes, in moderation, and as long as it's not against the rules at your particular church. Don't wear too much, or any large, distracting pieces.

Have a serious talk with them about their duties and how being an usher is about serving God. Warn them that if they don't start following through, they're going to be replaced. If the stern talking-to doesn't help, go ahead and replace them.

No you do not need to make the Sign of the Cross when you greet members, but you need to be respectful and acknowledge that people are in prayer. Don’t start a loud conversation with them, as they will disturb other people.