The church usher is often an overlooked figure in the world of regular Christian worship so I commend you for seeking out a text that will honor this often volunteer position.
Alas amidst the streams of endless prose that pour across time and nation, the humble church usher has not often been the subject of literary work, in fact I can only think of one poem.
It is called "Your Usher” by Raymond A. Foss and goes something like this…
Leading us to our seats,
Watching the congregation,
Caring for the flock
From the back of the sanctuary,
From the aisles,
Sharing the joy of worship,
The community of believers,
One bulletin, one smile,
One greeting, one handshake
at a time.
It was written in October 2007 for an usher by the name of Al Leavitt, who stepped down after serving Wesley United Methodist Church, Concord, New Hampshire for 62 years.
But if you want to honor the usher at your local church, why not try and construct your own poem? This will be a wonderful gift to the person who has served your church so diligently over the years.
If you’re new to poetry writing here are a few tips but it shouldn’t be too hard as you already have the source for your inspiration.
First think about what you want to achieve with your poem. Carry a notebook and a pen with you at all times for when inspiration hits.
Remember to use concrete imagery and vivid descriptions rather than abstract notions.
Save your most powerful message or insight for the end of your poem as it will stick with the reader the longest.
Don't be afraid to edit your poem after completion and to cut away any excess fat.
And it is always worthwhile getting feedback and opinions on your work especially from people who know the usher you are writing about.
Good luck!
Alas amidst the streams of endless prose that pour across time and nation, the humble church usher has not often been the subject of literary work, in fact I can only think of one poem.
It is called "Your Usher” by Raymond A. Foss and goes something like this…
Leading us to our seats,
Watching the congregation,
Caring for the flock
From the back of the sanctuary,
From the aisles,
Sharing the joy of worship,
The community of believers,
One bulletin, one smile,
One greeting, one handshake
at a time.
It was written in October 2007 for an usher by the name of Al Leavitt, who stepped down after serving Wesley United Methodist Church, Concord, New Hampshire for 62 years.
But if you want to honor the usher at your local church, why not try and construct your own poem? This will be a wonderful gift to the person who has served your church so diligently over the years.
If you’re new to poetry writing here are a few tips but it shouldn’t be too hard as you already have the source for your inspiration.
First think about what you want to achieve with your poem. Carry a notebook and a pen with you at all times for when inspiration hits.
Remember to use concrete imagery and vivid descriptions rather than abstract notions.
Save your most powerful message or insight for the end of your poem as it will stick with the reader the longest.
Don't be afraid to edit your poem after completion and to cut away any excess fat.
And it is always worthwhile getting feedback and opinions on your work especially from people who know the usher you are writing about.
Good luck!
