[jmacusa]

Not in my parish. I tried abstaining once and did I get dirty looks!

[aksarben6]

You not only need to abstain but enlighten the pagans after Mass that one comes to worship God not their neighbor. Sometimes, if in a "Happy Clappy Liturgical Abusing Parish" I wish them a Happy Hanukkah and love the puzzled look on their faces even though my wife objects to such rude and crude behavior.

In a related matter, those who assist with the distribution of the Eucharist are Extraordinary Ministers of Communion not Eucharist Ministers. Anytime one can discombobulate the mental equilibrium of these Vat 2 types do it for we are commanded to perform corporal works of mercy.

[AnAmericanMother]

If you remain kneeling for the Lord's Prayer, people will leave you alone!

Also, if you put your face in your hands like you're lost in prayer, it helps. I've used that in self-defense in some happy-clappy parishes (not my own which is pretty orthodox and has a rather subdued exchange of the Peace).

[Hegewisch Dupa]

I think he means it’s optional to have it as part of the service. Of course it’s optional for you not to shake hands, if you want to be that guy who lets a person hold their hand out to them just to be ignored.