Because of its importance, the role of usher has a long history in the Catholic Church. Referred to as porters in the Third Century, ushers used to guard the church doors against disruptive intruders. Today, ushers serve the opposite function by being one of the first to welcome parishioners and visitors to mass. Depending on the parish, they also assist in a variety of other ways.

Ushers at St. Joseph

Ushers greet and assist those coming to mass, oversee the collection of offerings, assist with the orderly reception of communion and handle any emergency that may arise during mass. Parishioners, at least 18 years of age, are needed to serve as regular ushers and as substitutes for all weekend and Holy Day Masses.