From the Cathedral to the streets: Sharing the Gospel at the Fargo Street Fair

“I sense that the moment has come to commit all of the Church’s energies to a new evangelization and to the mission ad gentes. No believer in Christ, no institution of the Church can avoid this supreme duty: to proclaim Christ to all peoples” (Redemptoris Missio, 3).  

St. Mary’s Cathedral took these words to heart during its recent evangelization at the Fargo Street Fair. Over three days, more than 50 parish and community volunteers joyfully shared Christ with tens of thousands on Broadway. Several hundred people encountered His presence through conversation, prayer, and the beauty of the Cathedral—all because of the shared goal to be the visible, welcoming presence of Christ.     

The Cathedral block was alive with activity as practicing Catholics, lapsed Catholics, people of other faiths, and the unaffiliated were drawn in by God’s beauty, goodness, and truth. A booth with free rosaries, medals, and pamphlets sparked many conversations. Priests, religious, and laity offered prayer with those in need, while the Cathedral’s open doors and guided tours drew hearts to Christ’s Real Presence.   

Monsignor Joseph Goering shared, “What I noticed the most about my time in the prayer booth was the visible effect of the open church doors and the number of people who felt free to walk in on their own or take advantage of the tours. As for the prayer encounters, it was the wonderful—and usual—mixture of seeing who God prompted to come ask questions or seek prayers.”    

Real Presence Radio also joined in proclaiming the Gospel and interactive chalk art engaged many children. Volunteers selling parking tickets and water spread Christ’s love through simple acts of kindness. Countless moments of grace were encountered—for Catholics uplifted by our public witness, for the curious, and for those searching.  

Many times, the fruit of one’s efforts aren’t made visible in this life, but God gave glimpses of His work at the Street Fair. A woman, who had lost her job said, “It’s so awesome that you are here. Can I give you a hug?” A young Lutheran, when asked if he was Catholic, said “No, but I know beauty when I see it.” A young Assembly of God man eagerly asked, “Where can I find information on the Catholic Church?”  

A former Baptist didn’t think it mattered which faith a person belonged if they shared belief in Jesus Christ. Small talk led to a personal conversation, and he shared many trials from his past. He acknowledged that, in his experience, Catholics had treated him the best. I told him that without his past trials, we would not be there talking.   

I gave him several blessed items. He asked if the church was open during the week since he works Sundays. I gave him a welcome brochure and said he was always welcome. Then I pointed out the Divine Mercy image, explaining its history—from St. Faustina’s revelations to its significance that dates to the cross, when Jesus’ heart was pierced and the fountain of His love and mercy opened for all humanity. He was moved to tears, thanked me, and left with a full heart. 

Seeing people’s response to the Catholic presence at the Street Fair leads one to reflect: Why do we evangelize? Christ commands us to “go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16: 15). As Catholics entrusted with the fullness of truth, we have a responsibility to share it. If we do not, people will encounter only fragments of truth or distortions, never enjoying the fullness of life in Christ as we do. “The number of those who do not know Christ and do not belong to the Church is constantly on the increase (Redemptoris Missio, 3).” Many think life does not make sense. Sadly, many believe life is not worth living. They need Jesus, who gives true life and purpose.  

When we hear Christ’s call to evangelize, we may say, “I’m afraid,” or “I won’t know what to say.” But by Baptism, we receive the powerful gift of the Holy Spirit who gives us the courage and the words we need. What’s needed from us is a humble, willing heart that desires to share Christ, a joyful spirit, and a listening ear. Then, with prayer and faith, we trust Him to do the rest.  

Monsignor Goering noted that “making myself available outside probably led to some visits that would not have happened if the person needed to come to the parish office.” Not everyone is called to evangelize on the street, but all of us are called to seek opportunities to bring Christ to others—whether by smiling to a stranger, praying with another, or inviting someone to Holy Mass. It may mean leaving one’s comfort zone to meet people where they are, just as Christ did for us.   

May these positive encounters at the Street Fair inspire each of us to step out in faith and proclaim Christ to all—in the mission fields of daily life and in public spaces where “the harvest is abundant, but the laborers are few” (Luke 10:2).