Yu Ying (Section 6)

Before I became an usher, I was biased against ushers in general because I thought they are insensitive (to the Holy Spirit and worshippers during service) and annoying (asking me to give up my seats all the time). When I was deciding which ministry to join, the usher ministry was one of my top choices. It took me 3 weeks to finally decide to join the ministry as I was battling within myself whether would I become like one of those insensitive and annoying ushers. The moment I was accepted into usher ministry, I made a decision that I will be positive no matter what I encounter.

Usher ministry changed my life the first day I stepped into it. I learnt that in order to be a good usher, I take note of every seat in the zone I am in charge of. I know every person, which row they are sitting in and why there is an empty seat beside them. I try my best to reserve seats for their new friends and also take care of their comfort and every need during the service. I realize that ushers are annoying because they care about the service, our pastors and creating the best worship atmosphere for the congregation.

Through the usher ministry, I have learnt more about the operation of a church service. My eyes were opened to the smallest details of running a service like laying bulletins, collecting offering, communion, distributing gifts, collecting bus coupons, etc. UM has trained me to have more initiative and my IC has often encouraged me to be creative in solving problems which I face during ministry. I have gained experience and knowledge in human relations, resource management as well as improving my organization skills as an usher. I believe that the usher ministry is where I can increase my value and be a greater servant.

A simple incident that moved me: I was serving as a carpark greeter one weekend. I was at level 2 carpark for 2 hours plus. I greeted everyone I met and tried to be helpful to them. But most of them were uninterested in a conversation. I felt unappreciated. But at this time something happened that changed my mind. A brother bought me a bottle of fruit juice. He said, it's hot at the carpark and I must have been bored being on duty alone at the carpark. He left after handing me the juice. I felt very touched that someone actually appreciates ushers for the things we do. I was very touched and I know that God remembers us for the things we do. Hallelujah! ;)