Ushers assist in a variety of capacities during the Mass. The ushering staff is a group of men and women who assist with seating, direct with crowd flow and movement, take up collection, assist those with special needs, hand out information during mass as needed, greet parishioners and guests, and in general, ensure services flow smoothly and orderly. Efforts by the ushers facilitate a safe and focused environment during the liturgy, thereby heightening the congregation's ability to receive the Word of God.