Ushers
Welcome to the Usher Ministry of the African Catholic Community, St. Mary’s Catholic Church Dubai
“Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.” (Psalm 84:10)
Beloved in Christ, we gladly welcome you to the Usher Ministry, a vital and grace-filled arm of service in our community. Our ministry is not just about giving directions or seating the congregation—it is a sacred calling to serve God’s people with warmth, order, and reverence in His house.
Who We Are
The ushers are the first ministers of hospitality in the liturgy. By extending a smile, offering a word of welcome, guiding the faithful to their seats, and ensuring that the sacred celebrations flow smoothly and prayerfully, ushers create an atmosphere where Christ Himself is encountered.
This ministry is deeply rooted in Scripture. From the Levites who were entrusted with the care of the Temple gates (1 Chronicles 9:17–19), to the apostles who appointed deacons to assist in service (Acts 6:1–4), the role of attendants in God’s worship has always been one of dignity, humility, and dedication. Serving as an usher is therefore more than a duty—it is a visible witness of Christ’s love, order, and hospitality.
The Importance of Ushers in the Liturgy
Ushers serve as the welcoming hands and hearts of the parish. They are the bridge between the sanctuary and the assembly, helping to foster an environment where every member of the congregation feels at home in God’s presence. Through attentiveness and reverence, ushers reflect the words of St. Paul: “Do everything in a fitting and orderly way” (1 Corinthians 14:40).
Our mission is threefold:
- Welcoming: Greeting each person with the love of Christ (Romans 15:7).
- Guiding: Providing direction and assistance so that worship is free of distraction.
- Serving: Attending to the needs of the congregation with humility, praying that all may enter into God’s presence in peace.
By their service, ushers ensure that the celebration of the Holy Mass and other liturgies unfold in harmony, dignity, and reverence.
Invitation to You
If you feel a stirring in your heart to serve the Lord and His people, the Usher Ministry is a beautiful way to answer that call. Whether young or old, man or woman, the Lord desires the gifts of willing hands and joyful hearts. As Christ Himself taught: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Mark 10:43).
We invite you to prayerfully consider joining this ministry of hospitality, order, and service. Together, we can be instruments of welcome, ensuring that every worshipper who enters this holy place can say with confidence: “I rejoiced when they said to me, let us go to the house of the Lord” (Psalm 122:1).
Come, and let your service be a living offering to God.
Prayer for Ushers
Heavenly Father, You have called us to serve in Your house with gladness and humility. As You once instructed the Levites to keep watch at the gates of Your temple, today You entrust our ushers with the care of welcoming Your people into Your holy presence.
Send forth Your Holy Spirit upon us, O Lord, that we may serve not only with our hands but with our hearts. Let our smiles reflect the joy of Christ, our guidance reflect the order of Your Spirit, and our service bring peace to all who enter these doors.
Grant us patience, charity, humility, and the strength to remain faithful in this ministry. May we truly be “doorkeepers in the house of the Lord” (Psalm 84:10), bringing honor and reverence to every liturgy they serve.
Lord, bless our going out and our coming in, now and forevermore (Psalm 121:8).
Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
For more information on how to join, please get in touch with Bro. , before or after Mass, or call the African Catholic Community coordinator, Bro. Fidelis Chris on 0558687961, you can also email us at africomdubai@gmail.com