Problem with subbing preacher

[Xenia]

This should probably go in the prayer section! I am really having a problem with the guy our preacher chooses to sub for him when he is out of town (which isn't very often). I am sure his heart is right and I am in no way passing judgement on his sincerity. I just do not feel he is gifted to be a preacher. I guess he doesn't use an outline or something. It is almost impossible to follow what he is preaching about, he skips all over the place and veers off into storys about his work place that go on and on and on. It drives me crazy! I tell myself that he is nervous, he is new at it, give him some time! I chide myself over and over for feeling the way I do. Other's in the congregation feel the same way. I have never discussed this with any church member but I see and hear the dissapointment when they see that he is going to preach too. I could never get up there and do what he is (attempting to) do.. I know it would be hard. Still, this last Sunday I am hungry for the word. I am so ready when Sunday comes around. I walk in and there he is. I felt like I wanted to leave... I could hardly stand it. It was communion Sunday and I passed it over because I was feeling such angst! Is this terrible or what. Everytime this happens I feel like writing an anonymous note to the preacher about it but I talk myself out of it. I am not a busy-body! But, I am really vexed about the situation... Any suggestions?? My husband feels like I do and I bet the next time this happens that he wants to leave!

[Tamera]

I have been in this situation before and have struggled with handling the situation correctly. Finally the way I handled it was to sit in the back away from people and prop my Bible up on my lap and read it, while he was preaching. I figured, at least this way, I was still getting fed. It may not be right. I don't know. But it worked for me.

[sommergirl]

I agree with Tamera. I have often spent the majority of service reading my Bible. The problem is, what if someone is visiting your church for the first time. They may never come back! I am curious to hear the viewpoint of some fellow members on this very troubling issue! I wouldn't want to hurt anyone's feelings, but if you are called to be a minister, then you should be held to a high standard, shouldn't you?

Confused... What would Jesus do?

[lynnmosher]

You are probably not the only one experiencing this and each one is wishing somebody else would do something! Why not talk to some of your friends and see what they have to say. Then maybe go to the preacher as a group and express your concerns, especially sommergirl's point...what if someone is visiting your church for the first time?

[Xenia]

Our church is small ~ probably 200 in each of the two services (our building is small so we have two). I don't think I could go the route of discussing with others and going as a group to the pastor. I would be afraid this might cause division. So far we have handled it by just trying to zone out into our own bible reading which is good but it's not what we are there for. I love my church and would never ever want to cause trouble. I just don't know what to do... And, yes... what about new folks! I appreciate your input very much.
I need to pray more!!!