The LDS Church (original) (raw)

So, I don't know if this is a weird question or not, but...

Does anyone have any experience actively and politely turning down fellowshipping?

I know that sounds ridiculous. But...at this particular moment in my life, I am NOT looking to be fellowshipped. I just returned to church for the first time in 2+ years. I've been twice and gone to all three meetings. But, I'm not looking for fellowshipping.

I don't want to be introduced to every single person sitting in my proximity. I don't want the RS Presidency knocking at my door every other day. I don't want to be lead around like someone's pet project.

Right now I'm focussing on myself. Getting myself in the habit of going again. This over-eager fellowshipping is making me self-conscious. And right now, more importantly, I plan on moving out of this town as soon as I can get a job in the next town north. I don't want to establish ties here.

I just don't want to be rude to anyone. But I really don't want to be fellowshipped. I want to be mostly neglected. A friendly smile, a nod, sharing a hymnal, all totally great. But I'm not looking for more than that. Not right now.

My first Sunday back went exactly the opposite of what I wanted. I wanted to sit there unnoticed. Didn't want to stand up and introduce myself. I purposely arrived at Sacrament meeting as the bishop was standing so no one would approach me, but a nice older woman came and asked me if I wanted to sit with her and introduced herself and pointed at every woman in eyesight telling me who they were. She led me from class to class, continued seeking people out to introduce me to, and I just felt on the spot.

Again, I know this sounds so cynical and mean, but I really just need things a little less in your face. So I was wondering if anyone had ideas. Should I just come out and say it to the RS Pres? Not rude, just explain how I'm feeling? Or, I'm betting this is the more likely answer to my question: suck it up, buttercup. ;)