Prior to witnessing about the saving grace of the Lord Jesus Christ at the Samaritan food pantry, I was quite honestly terrified at the prospect of sharing my faith. At 53, I decided that is was about time that I participate in the great commission, according to the command of the Lord. Though in retrospect, it was a challenge, it was also far easier than I had anticipated. With the assistance of my fellow parishioners, as well as the witnessing tools (rosaries and pamphlets), it was easy to establish a rapport with those who had came seeking assistance from St. Joseph’s. In addition, the majority of those we spoke to seemed hungry for information about the Catholic faith. Likewise, those who did not wish to talk to us were generally polite about their choice.
Having participated twice in witnessing at the Samaritan pantry, each time with successful results, I found people to be less receptive at locations that were not in proximity to the parish. After witnessing at the block party, along with Elizabeth Davis, there were less people that wanted to discuss the Catholic faith with us, though we encountered vastly more people than we did at our station in front of the parish. In retrospect, I have thought about this fact, and believe the high temperature on the day of the block party may have been a deciding factor to those who may have otherwise chosen to talk to us. I have also considered the possibility that many people may have been reluctant to be seen by others inquiring about possible interest in our faith. As a teenager, I recall being embarrassed what my peers would think about me if I were to express interest in Christianity. Though many in our parish would cringe at the prospect of someone suggesting they were embarrassed to be associated with the Lord Jesus, it is way more common than many would believe, especially amongst the younger generation. I am anxious to share my faith more in the future and believe that the majority in the parish would find sharing their faith to be as rewarding as I myself have.
Kevin Marchant