re: work and church
Work will refuse me entry, I will fight it and win and so have a paid holiday. I know the law and policy better than the security but it's not worth the hassle so far. I have to change into work clothes anyway so it would be just a show. Nearly happened a few years ago, when they introduced ITARS regulations but I was off anyway. You probably need to measure that one out carefully.

Church will surprise you, it did me. It has come up on other threads. Maybe they feel, because they are "brothers and sisters" they can be as loose as family. Be ready for that.