Article January 23, 1932 Issue

Ushering as Church Work

JOHN SHARPE WILSON

As one of the several avenues of church work available to members of a Christian Science church, what a glorious privilege of serving the office of usher affords! Here, indeed, is an opportunity to "freely give," to be a genuine host to numerous friends—stranger, visitor, church member. Whether they know it or not, those attending a Christian Science service for the first time have come to learn about God; have come to be healed by touching the hem of the garment of the Christ, Truth.

Our beloved Leader, Mrs. Eddy, has provided that all shall receive the word of welcome to our Sunday services by being addressed as "Friends" (Explanatory Note, Christian Science Quarterly); and it is as "friends" that they should be welcomed by the ushers. A true host will never fail to welcome his guests, will never discriminate in his attention and hospitality, but will give equally to all an assuring, comforting, gracious welcome. And so it is that the usher who would do the greatest good for the greatest number lovingly bestows equally on all a friendly welcome and the service of his office.

As action is the expression of thought, the mental qualities entertained play an important part in the work of an usher. The alert usher knows that his work must be mentally efficient before it can be externalized in good to all; knows that his thought must be kept humble, active, and willing to respond at all times to loving and practical good; knows that he must cultivate spiritual poise and the quiet dignity which his position demands. Thoughts of kindness, gentleness, love, express true hospitality when externalized in action and in service. They mark the work of the efficient usher, and do much in contributing to the healing atmosphere of church services.

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