Hi unbeliever,
I tried several years back. First mtg. cried and told my story. (Different cong. in a different city). People were friendly as they didn't know my standing. Next mtg. what a change!! No one talked to me and heads turned my way w/that certain "stare". Obviously word got out from the elder's lips probably through his wife.
He was supposed to contact my previous cong. Know what? Didn't hear from him for a year. I asked him what happened. Didn't give me a clear answer - just himmed and hawed around. Apologized for not getting back to me and said he was sorry. I told him he should be sorry as he didn't do his job and now I'm going my way and don't call me anymore.
There are many hoops. I decided I was not going to put myself through it. Not emotionally healthy and they don't give a crap anyway. So unlike the Prodigal son illustration.
Juni