Prayer Request: Awkward Priest Situation

[tinytherese]

My priest hugs me without permission as I walk out of the church and at other times. I'm not someone who's physically affectionate with a lot of people. I've been too nervous to say anything. I don't want to make a scene especially since other parishioners are usually around when this happens. It's been known to happen during the sign of peace when I lector, so the congregation can see us. Now I extend my hand for a handshake before he can do that to me as a subtle way to discourage him. Grandma says that that's just his personality, but I don't think that people should be forced to do physical contact that they're uncomfortable with to be "polite".

He's put his hand on my shoulder or squeezed my arm as I walk by. Once he even got close to my face and turned as if he expected me to kiss his cheek. I didn't expect this and took a step backwards. I didn't know what to say during these situations. If he tries to do something like that again, I'll tell him, "Just handshakes for me". 

[Guest]

18 hours ago, tinytherese said:

"Just handshakes for me".

 You could have a word with him in private of course - but a happy "Just handshakes for me" should get you where you want to be.