Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception Usher Program

Since 1982, Knights of Columbus have served the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception with the Basilica Usher Program. This ministry is a Supreme Council program overseen by the State Deputies of Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia.

This rewarding program provides an important service to the pilgrims and visitors to the National Shrine. If you’ve not been there, the shrine is an amazing place. Whether you go for Mass, on retreat with your council, or on a pilgrimage with your parish, you will be in awe of Mary’s place that is just a short distance away from our nation’s capital.

The Knights’ ushers are the “face of the Basilica” as they offer hospitality and welcome visitors entering the Basilica for Mass. Ushers are attentive at the Processional, are a Guardian of the Blessed Sacrament at Communion, and are attentive during the Recessional at the conclusion of Mass. Post COVID, usher responsibilities have been somewhat reduced, but the need for Knights remains to assist in enhancing the congregation’s worship experience. Schedules are flexible

Knights are asked to consider serving with reverence and dignity in the Basilica Usher Program, and councils are asked to support the program with a monthly team of ushers.

To sign up for the usher program, complete the application. For more information, contact Mike Byrne at shrineusher@gmail.com.