For 41 years, Andrew C. has welcomed worshippers to Temple Emanu-El for the High Holy Days as a volunteer usher. Over the course of four decades, Andrew has helped generations of temple members find their seats, welcomed guests with a warm smile, and served the temple community.
For Andrew, co-chairman of the Usher’s Committee, serving as an usher is about helping members and guests feel comfortable, welcomed, and prepared to connect with the divine.
“At the end of a service where I have served as a High Holy Days volunteer usher, I feel that I have truly done a mitzvah for Temple Emanu-El, for God, and for myself,” he said.
Andrew has simple advice for prospective volunteer ushers.
“You need to be patient, cordial, and understanding,” he said.
Serving as an usher at Temple Emanu-El is a family tradition for Andrew. He met his wife while volunteering as an usher, and when his son was in high school, he also served as a volunteer usher.
For Andrew, serving as an usher is an act of service and a way to give back to Temple Emanu-El.
“Serving as a High Holy Days volunteer has made me feel I am doing my duty to God. It’s been a rewarding experience, one I would not trade for anything. It has given me a sense of accomplishment and commitment,” he said.
Interested in becoming a High Holy Days volunteer usher? Email membership@emanuelnyc.org. Volunteers must be members of Temple Emanu-El.
