ABOUT US
Our mission is to enhance the spiritual and professional development of church ushers throughout Illinois. We strive to provide training, resources, and support to ensure ushers serve their congregations with excellence, dedication, and a spirit of hospitality.
OUR VISION
The Organization is committed to the Ushers and perpetuation of a uniform method of Church Ushering. The Organization strives to stimulate interest in Church Ushering; to promote growth through the development and implementation of innovative programs; and to raise the spiritual, moral and social awareness of its membership.
WHAT WE DO
The objective of the organization is to broaden the field of Church Ushering and Christian fellowship. Membership into this organization shall be limited to zones within the State of Illinois. This organization shall be an interdenominational group of Church Ushers - a not for profit corporation.
OUR COMMUNITY
Our community is at the heart of everything we do. We are proud of our Junior Usher Dept. (ages 8-21), Young Adult Dept. (ages 21-35), Nurses, Hospitality, State Choir along with many others departments and committees.
We encourage active participation and engagement from all members, and we look forward to creating lasting memories and experiences together.
Our History
In 1931 Mr. Fred B. Smith (Captain Smith), president of the Pilgrim Baptist Church Usher Board, was the visionary for bringing forth the idea of the Ushers becoming a State Organization.
After much hard work, meetings, planning sessions, and prayers, the State was organized in 1936, and Mr. George T. Grier of the Metropolitan Community Church became the first President. Also in 1936, the State of Illinois became a part of the National United Church Ushers of America.
The Unit Church Ushers League has thrived due to the loyalty, expertise, and hard work of each Zone and its many dedicated members working together in Christian love and for the betterment of our organization.
Zones that Make Up Illinois
Twin City Zone - Organized in 1937, by Bro. George T. Grier, with five churches. Boundaries Wisconsin/Illinois border south to Highwood, IL.; Mundelein, IL. East to Lake Michigan
South End Zone - Organized in 1946, at Arnett Chapel AME Church, along with Beth Eden and New Hope Church. Boundaries: 95th Street South to Kankakee, IL.; Crawford Street/ Pulaski Avenue East to the Illinois/Indiana border.
North Shore - Organized in 1937, Organized at the home Ms. Anna W. Davis. Supervised, by George T. Grier and Ms. Esther Lamar, whom became Esther Grier. Boundaries: Highland Park, IL. / South to Howard Street;/ Skokie, IL. East to Lake Michigan.
Fox Valley Zone - Organized in 1977, formed at Progressive Church Baptist of Aurora. Boundaries: East to Maywood, West to Ottawa, North to Elgin, and South to Joliet.
Chicago Zone - Organized in 1919, through the vision of John C. Williams, the Unit Church Usher League was formed with nine founding boards. Boundaries: 23rd Street South to 94th Street from Damen Avenue east to Lake Michigan.
Austin Zone - Boundaries: Howard Street South to Cermak Road/22nd Street and East to Lake Michigan; Bellwood, IL. East to Damen Avenue from Cermak Road/ 22nd Street South to 94th Street.