Matthew 25:35: "I was a stranger and you welcomed me."

Romans 15:7: "Welcome one another, therefore, as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God."

Hebrews 13:2: "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."

Ushers are often the first person that parishioners or visitors encounter when they come to Queen of Peace.  They are key in helping to make people feel welcome and helping maintain order and security of services.  Contact the parish office at (503) 364-7202, if you would like to serve as an usher.

PRIMARY DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

• Greeting parishioners before Mass begins
  • Creating an atmosphere of cheerfulness by smiling and saying hello.
  • Handing out hymnals. 
  • Opening doors for those who need assistance.
  • Directing new visitors to parish facilities (e.g. Where is the bathroom?)
  • Answering other questions about the parish and redirecting them to parish staff as needed.
  • Choosing a family to bring the gifts of bread, wine, and the book of intentions during the offertory.
• Taking up the collection during Mass
  • ​​​​​​​During the Preparation of the Altar, passing the collection basket throughout the sanctuary. 
  • After Mass, emptying the collection into a security bag located in the sacristy, signing the usher logbook, and then depositing the bag into the secure safe in the electrical room.
• Assisting with the logistics of Holy Communion distribution
  • ​​​​​​​If there are a sufficient number of ushers, this means excusing rows for Communion.
  • Directing the Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion (EMHC) to parishioners who request Holy Communion be brought to them due to physical impairment.
• End of Mass Duties
  • ​​​​​​​Propping exterior doors for easier exit.
  • Distribution of parish bulletins.
  • Bringing offertory to secure safe.
• Public Safety
  • ​​​​​​​Informing Liturgy & Spiritual Outreach Coordinator of any health-related emergency.
  • Vigilance of potential safety threats (e.g. theft, menacing, violence) and calling 911 if necessary.

CONTINUING EDUCATION & FORMATION

• Catechism of the Catholic Church: The Virtues
• Catholic Hospitality Institute: What is Hospitality?
• Hospitality is Biblical - and It's Not Optional (Catholic Answers)
• Video: Optimal Work Podcast on "A Cheerful Giver"
• Video: Hospitality Ministers Formation
• Video: St. Benedict on Hospitality (Mount Angel Abbey)