What is the job of the usher during Shabbat and holiday services?
There is always one usher on duty during Shabbat and holiday services. During a Bar or Bat Mitzvah there are two and for the High Holidays there are as many as a half-dozen. The ushers begin their work before the services start and continue to be responsible for the overall smooth running of Shabbat and Yom Tov services throughout the morning and on through to the Kiddush. They make sure the sanctuary is comfortable and quiet enough for prayer. They help the Rabbi and Cantor in whatever way is necessary during the services. If anyone else needs help or information about the services, the ushers are the ones who supply it. The ushers select people to recite the blessings for the Torah reading, open and close the ark, lift and dress the Torah and perform other honors. On special occasions like Bar or Bat Mitzvah celebrations, they orchestrate the honors assigned to the family and friends of the celebrating family. Most importantly, they ensure that all these tasks are done at the proper
