I too have a little issue with the “greet your neighbour” habit many churches have acquired.
I am quite happy to shake the hand of someone I am formally introduced to, provided I have the option of declining the handshake or there is a way I can wash up before touching anything or anyone I care about. A total stranger in a church I am only at because I am travelling on a Sunday? Not so much, really. I have no opportunity to wash up, between handshakes or before the sermon. I will NOT leave the pews before the sermon is over unless there is an EXTREME reason to do so.
Locals have immunities I do not, and I have immunities they do not.
While travelling, I REALLY don’t want to catch the local version of Montecuzoma’s Revenge, or any other common malady. I’m saddened that you might take offense, but do you really want to experience the Yellowknife version of Norwalk virus?
See post 95