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Before the service begins
Please arrive 15 minutes before the service is scheduled to begin.
Drape the rope over the last two pews on each side of the aisle, reserving them for the choir's recessional hymn.
Be sure there are bulletins, hymnals, and BCPs on the cushions of the first pew behind the side doors. This is the handicap access.
Position yourself at the closed doors from the narthex to the church.
Welcome people as they enter and give them a service bulletin.
Offer assistance to their seat if it appears to be needed.
Hook the doors open just before the Processional.
Close the doors following the Processional. Be sure there are bulletins on the table, taking some to your seat for late arrivals.
During the service
(NOTE: A head count needs to be done, any available time is fine)
After the passing of the peace, the Holy Communion part of the service begins.
If possible, during the passing of the peace, notify the Sunday School teacher that the Holy Communion is about to begin so he/she can bring the children to participate.
Offertory
- Stand in the back of the church with the offertory plates. When the oblation bearers walk forward, follow behind them stopping at the edge of the first pews.
- When the oblation bearers pass, returning to their seats, bow together toward the altar, turn and begin the collection by passing the plates to each pew. It is nice, but not necessary, to move in synch with your co-usher.
- Remain at the back of the church during the Offertory Anthem (sung by the choir) and during the Offertory Hymn (sung by all). The Offertory hymn merges directly into the Doxology. During the Doxology, take the plates forward to the altar (watch for the Lay Eucharistic Minister to present the large brass offering plate).
- Place the plates one on top of the other in the hands of the lay minister.
- Make a slight bow toward the altar, close the altar gate and return to your seat.
Communion
- Following the priest’s invitation to Eucharist, ushers walk together to the edge of the first pew. Make a slight bow.
- The usher “manning” the steps goes forward to his/her position. This usher’s job is to direct traffic to the altar rail, and to help people up and down the stairs, as needed. This is especially important for some of our seniors, who need a steadying hand when descending the stairs. Direct the congregants to the altar rail from right to left in an orderly manner if possible.
- The usher bringing communicants forward takes ushers backward pew to pew. I find a good indication of how fast to send people forward is to begin when the first choir member receives the host (wafer).
- If you think someone doesn’t realize it’s their time to go forward it’s appropriate to politely inquire. I find it’s also an opportunity to tell them it’s acceptable if they’re interested, to be blessed but not fed, by folding their arms across their chest at the altar.
- If a person appears unable to go forward for Communion, offer to bring the priests to them.
- Take your own Communion once parishioners have finished. Be sure to remain at the stairs to offer assistance until they have all descended.
- For those parishioners who need or wish to take Communion in the pews, discreetly lead then direct the Celebrant to them.
After the service
Before the choir begins the Recessional, open the doors to the narthex.
- Be available to assist with exit on the side entrance if necessary.
- Count and record the offerings from both the 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM services and deposit the bag in the safe.
Disturbances and Security
As Ushers and representatives of Calvary Episcopal Church, it is our desire to make our guests and fellow parishioners feel that they are in a safe and welcoming environment. Unfortunately, there have been occasions when person(s) have become disruptive and/or a security concern at Calvary. There may be at time when we are called upon to address such concerns. Although it would be impossible to innumerate all possible scenarios, it may be beneficial to review a few of the more common experiences and reiterate the possible suggestions made at our recent usher meeting with Fr: Joel. As discussed, there have been incidences where person(s) have:
- - congregated outside on church grounds and have been disruptive during services.
- - disrupted service with important, yet poorly timed outbursts.
- - have brought into our house of worship items that could be considered threatening to others (ex: knives, sticks, animals).
- - worn apparel that may be inappropriate or indecent.
Because of our proximity to downtown, we enjoy the richness and diversity of the people which inhabit it. Along with that blessing, it is obvious that many of our neighbors suffer from various ailments. Many of the incidents we may encounter are likely to come from these members of our community. These and other situations typically can be handled by offering Christian kindness and an appropriate alternative to inappropriate behavior. As we discussed, if we make it understood that their conduct is keeping us from our time of worship or in some way makes others uncomfortable and ask for their support, we can diffuse most any situation. A terrific suggestion was made to partner with the disruptive guest and model the appropriate behavior we are trying to achieve. If an individual member is uncomfortable or intimidated, try partnering with another, there is strength in numbers. Remember, “for where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them” (Mt 18:20). However, if the situation becomes dangerous, it may become necessary to call for help. In this extreme case, the Santa Cruz Police Department has made it clear that they are a partner with us to ensure the security of our grounds. We certainly do not want anyone to get hurt. Don’t hesitate to call 911 if there is truly an emergency.
The following emergency numbers can be used for non-emergency calls:
Santa Cruz City Police: 471-1131 Santa Cruz Fire Dept.: 471-1170
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