Can a layperson approach a priest about the priest's behavior?

[jkdad]

I attend 6am Mass during the week at another parish, not my own, and there is a priest there that regularly celebrates Mass, who expresses no joy or passion when celebrating the Mass. Instead he sighs during the reading of the Gospel and Consecration, as if bored or disinterested. When he speaks he looks down and mumbles, making it difficult to understand him. His manner is such that it seems that he does not really want to be there. I am not the only person who has noticed this. Can a layperson approach him about these concerns, or is there specific protocol that must be followed. His behavior greatly impacts mood of the celebration.

John, from Arizona

 

[Fr.Vincent_Serpa]

Dear friend,

Certainly, you can approach him with concern about that fact that he seems so unhappy. and that you have been praying for him. This is supportive. If he should want to talk about it, he might be willing to do so with someone who is sympathetic rather than critical. I will be praying for him as well.

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.