local preacher

noun

1. (in early Methodism) a layperson appointed to supervise the congregation and conduct services between visits of a circuit rider.
2. (in the southern U.S.) a lay preacher.

Word History and Origins

Origin of local preacher¹

First recorded in 1765–75

Example Sentences

Geordie Armstrong, after a somewhat stormy past, had become a steady hewer, and a local preacher of some repute.

From Project Gutenberg

Then my memory once more told me what manner of man I was talking to—he was a prominent local preacher.

From Project Gutenberg

The first time old Deacon Gibson, a local preacher, had been hiving a swarm of bees when Nicodemus arrived on the scene.

From Project Gutenberg

At the age of seventeen he was made a Methodist exhorter, or local preacher.

From Project Gutenberg

"So Mr. So-and-So is dead," in reference to a local preacher.

From Project Gutenberg