Official Review: Guide For Ushering In The 21st Century

[EricaWilson]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Guide For Ushering In The 21st Century" by Gladys T. Smith.]

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3 out of 4 stars

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Gladys Tywanna Smith’s Guide for Ushering in the 21st Century takes the reader behind the scenes of Trinity Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. This short novel provides insight into the church’s struggle to establish a united and reliable leadership team. Gladys Tywanna Smith is placed in charge of training the ushers, but the task proves to be much more daunting than it may seem. She can’t seem to find anyone that matches her passion for ushering, as evident by the overwhelming amount of opposition she receives from those around her. However, Smith knows that God has called her to his service, and she never allows her efforts to solidify her church’s leadership team to dwindle.

I enjoyed the many bible verses sprinkled throughout the novel. They connect Smith’s teachings to those of Christ and reveal how the Word of God dictates her actions. The key points of the text are also highlighted in bold. This was very helpful to me because it allowed me to pick out the main themes and ideas to remember from the story.

What is so unique about this autobiographical narrative is that it partly reads like a novel. Many people can become disinterested with Christian books that make them feel as if they are being preached to with every word. Smith’s novel does include many of these long insightful phrases, but the author frequently incorporates her own experiences to keep the plot moving forward.

After reading Smith’s guide, I have a new appreciation for the ushers at my church. I had no idea how much work actually went into ushering. Ushers are there to provide for their guest’s every need and to make sure that each visitor has the best experience possible. They are the friendly face that every guest sees as they arrive, and they are in charge of making sure every person is seated comfortably for the service. For the entirety of the sermon, they are focused on watching over the church and are prepared to spring to action in the case of an emergency.

While very informational, the text could be a little repetitive at times. There were a few grammar mistakes and spelling mistakes that I saw as well. Because of this, I feel that Smith’s Guide for Ushering in the 21st Century should receive 3 out of 4 stars. Anyone looking to become more active in their church or even just wanting to know more about how to lead through faith should pick up this quick and easy read.

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Guide For Ushering In The 21st Century
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[revna01]

Thanks for a great review. I'm good you enjoyed this book. Gladys certainly is devoted to her calling and obviously wants to share her passion with others.

[Libs_Books]

I had no idea that ushering in church was "a thing" - it's just something I never thought of before. Thanks for an informative review.

[AmySmiles]

Sounds like a great book for a church leader of any denomination. Thanks for the review.

[gen_g]

Thanks for the review; it certainly brings to light how much goes on behind the scenes during a service.

[cpru68]

I never would have given thought to the ushers at church before! I mean, I know they are there, but never have been the focus of my attention. What a unique book this sounds like. It will make me more aware of those behind the scenes people who are serving. Good job on this review.

[Mouricia Allen]

This doesn't seem like a book I would read anytime soon, however, I loved your review of it.

[Jackie Holycross]

I have to admit, the title sounded boring, but your review reveals the depth of this book.