“let’s assume that I am a brand new neighbor of yours. We have only met each other in passing.”
Advice, since you asked: To maintain good neighbor” policy, DO NOT, repeat DO NOT discuss religion or politics with your neighbor — EVER.
Here is a dose of reality for you:
Your neighbor does not want to not be able to enjoy his backyard, and not be able to go outside, when you are outside, because you are constantly trying to convert him.
Just think how would you feel on the receiving end of some determined person’s attempts to convert you to their religion, whatever that may be.
Talk about your and your neighbor’s garden, kids, dogs, weather, anything except politics and religion.
That is, of course, unless you agree with each other in both respects.
Otherwise, DITTO!
Trust me, I know which neighbors I can can or can’t talk religion or politics with. Thankfully, I live in a fairly conservative neighborhood who don’t think too much of ObaMao.