The First Visit: Build Trust, Not Tension

Your first meeting with LDS missionaries sets the tone for everything that follows. Your goal isn’t to “win” a conversation or jump into doctrinal differences—it’s to build trust, learn their stories, and open the door to deeper dialogue.

That starts with how you prepare. A few simple steps can help you feel calm and confident as you welcome them:

• Prepare your heart through prayer and God’s word. If you’d like help, we’ve included a few short devotions you can use before and after each visit.
• Have a snack or drink ready (water is always appreciated).
• Keep your Bible close by. You can use your favorite translation (we usually recommend the NIV or ESV), but if they seem resistant, consider using the King James Version.
• Bring a notepad so you can take notes on their answers, define terms, or jot down follow-up questions.

These small steps may seem simple, but they speak volumes. They show that you’ve thought about this visit, that you care about them, and that you’re ready to listen well.

Start by learning about the people sitting across from you.

This is a real relationship, not just a theological exchange. Most missionaries are far from home, some are exhausted, and many are hungry for a kind face and a warm conversation.

Take time to ask about them:

• Where are you from?
• What made you decide to serve a mission?
• How long have you been out?
• What’s been the best part? What’s been the hardest?
• What are your hobbies?
• What do you miss most about home?
• What’s your favorite food (or home-cooked meal)?

Don’t be afraid to talk about non-spiritual things. Your care and attention may speak just as loudly as your words about Jesus later on.

Every first meeting is different.

Some missionaries may seem relaxed and relational. Others are all business and may want to jump straight into their presentation. Don’t be surprised if they offer to teach you the Plan of Salvation, “The Message of the Restoration,” or another prepared lesson.

Feel free to let them share. You might even say:

“I’d love to hear what you normally share with people. That would help me understand where you’re coming from.”

This gives you a natural opportunity to start asking questions, without interrupting or derailing their plan.

Listen more than you speak.

It can be tempting to explain what you believe, but you must first love them enough to understand what they believe.

Ask questions like:

• “Can you explain more what you mean by that?”
• “How do you personally understand grace or salvation?”
• “How would you explain the difference between the Restored Gospel and the Biblical Gospel?” 

Take notes if you can. This shows respect and helps you prepare to follow up thoughtfully in future visits.

This visit isn’t about delivering answers—it’s about opening the door to ongoing conversations. The more they feel heard and respected, the more likely they are to return.

As you listen and learn, silently pray that God will open their hearts to the truth and help them reflect the love of Christ with clarity and compassion.

Before They Leave

As your visit wraps up, consider these simple next steps:

• Ask for their phone number if you haven’t already done so.
• Set up your next appointment before they walk out the door. They’re used to scheduling follow-ups, and it keeps momentum going.
• Ask about visitors. If you haven’t already had this conversation, now is a great time to say: “I heard missionaries sometimes bring another person to future visits. I’d really prefer to keep it just the two of you, if possible; that’s more comfortable for me.”

After They Leave

Don’t rush back to your normal routine just yet. Take a few minutes to reflect and respond:

• Debrief with your witnessing partner. Talk about what you heard, what questions you still have, and what stood out.
• Update your prayer support team. Send a short text or email to let others join you in praying for specific next steps.
• Start praying and planning for the next visit. Ask God to guide your focus and give you wisdom for your next conversation.