How can I politely respond to questions when my new neighbors ask what church I go to, or invite me to theirs?

How about a simple smile, and "I'm sorry, I really don't feel comfortable talking about that. I guess it was the way I was brought up. It's a private thing, you know?".

Personally, I would just say "I don't go to church. I don't believe in any of that religion crap". But since that would probably make people upset, defensive and hostile, I can sure understand why you might not want to go there.

You might wind up offending them anyway but you shouldn't worry about that too much especially for those who can't take, I don't like to discuss religious beliefs. If they ask why, just say, it's just my way and I would appreciate it if you don't push the issue with me.

I was in a church where we invited people everywhere we went and were told to keep pressing the issue but I now see that as being harassment.

They probable do no longer advise it to be racist, they're purely curious in view which you may desire to be unique and eye-catching and that they only prefer to appreciate. If it upsets you nonetheless, or they're needless to say being racist, you need to assert some thing like "nicely this is a wierd question, i do no longer prefer to speak approximately it" or "i'm pleased with my Hispanic background" or in spite of ethnicity you're, so as that they understand this is a comfortable subject remember yet you will no longer seem impolite.

I don't think it would be offensive to say "I'm not a church goer." If people press for more information, you can just tell them that it's a personal matter and you don't wish to discuss it and then ask about the weather. If someone invites to attend their church, you tell them No Thank You. If they press for reasons, just keep saying Thank you for asking but no.

they're just politely asking questions, probably to make sure you don't feel left out of their community, and to make it clear to you that you are in fact invited and would be welcomed. i think you're really taking this the wrong way, and being overly sensitive.

just tell them the truth. if you go to church, tell them which one. what's the big secret? don't people see you there? if you don't go to church, say so! and if you don't want to go to their church, just say, no thank you. if they ask why, again be honest! just say you don't want to. if anyone continues to talk about their church and you don't want to, change the subject.

i seriously doubt you'll be harassed in the streets of the south to go to everyone's church.

Just say: "Oh my goodness, I never discuss religion or politics." Then change the subject -- ask where their favorite restaurant is or book store or whatever it is that you would be interested in learning about.

its against my religion