The other day, Tom Peters inspired me to think of ways parish volunteers could practice leadership. Today’s leadership practices focus on the ministry of greeters and ushers.
 
 
 

1. Greet people with a two-handed handshake, placing your left hand on the other person’s upper right arm.
2. As you greet people, introduce yourself with your name. Wear a name tag with your first name in 48-point type.
3. As you greet people, say a prayer in your heart: “Christ, thank you for manifesting yourself to me in this person today.”
4. Be alert to newcomers; show them to a seat next to someone you know and introduce them.
5. Greet people coming in the side door if it is usually unattended.
6. Hand people a hymnal or worship aid, already opened to the opening song (or the next song, for latecomers)
7. Stand on the sidewalk to greet people.
8. Greet the people around you in the pews when it is your Sunday “off” from door duty.
9. During Mass, be alert to non-Catholics; show them how to follow the Mass in the hymnal or worship aid.
10. Wait until the opening prayer or reading is finished to seat latecomers

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What are some additional ways ushers and greeters can practice leadership? Share your thoughts, because your insights are valuable.