What can we do about a wandering priest?

[Duane_L_Breaux]

What can I do about a priest who constantly leaves the sanctuary during Mass to adjust the thermostat, get something he forgot in the sacristy behind the sanctuary, etc.? Last Sunday, he left the sanctuary as the choir was singing the Gloria and did not get back until the last line was being sung. It is a constant distraction. He insists on setting up for Mass himself and usually forgets something. Many have offered to help set up for Mass but he refuses.

 

[Michelle_Arnold]

Rather than offer to take over the set-up before Mass, perhaps you could offer to be an altar server and gofer during Mass.

“Father,” you might say, “the congregation needs to see you on the altar during Mass because you act as an alter Christus and in Persona Christi. I understand that you prefer to set up for Mass yourself, but perhaps you could train me to be an altar server during Mass. That way, if you need something during Mass, you could let me know and I will be happy to fetch it for you.”