The ministry of ushers is the oldest lay ministry in the Catholic Church. The ushers of today have descended from a long line of people of God who have gone before them. During the time of Christ, the doorkeepers of the temple numbered in the hundreds and were the forerunners of today’s ushers. Today's ushers are Ministers of Hospitality and with the clergy, are the official hosts of the weekend masses and other events. By their presence, conversation and actions, ushers make all who come to the liturgical celebration feel welcome.