From the Heart of the Shepherd
- Church of St. Mark
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
From the bulletin for Palm Sunday of the Lord's Passion (Apr 13, 2025)
April 13, Palm Sunday
The principal Mass on Palm Sunday is supposed to be a processional liturgy. According to the Roman Missal, the people are to gather “at a smaller church or other suitable place other than inside the church to which the procession will go.” At St. Mark’s that “other suitable place” is the front steps of our (only) church building. Making our procession a rather short one. Had we another, “smaller church” at our disposal, the scene would be more dramatic: a multitude gathered with palms in their hands and shouting hosannas while lining the way for Christ the Priest as he makes his triumphal entrance down the block and into the temple. Yes, Mass would be even longer. But it would be a powerful witness to the neighbors, and probably a lot more fun.
We had our evangelizing “procession,” however, this past Saturday. Fifty five of you “went on ahead” to various environs in the metro to share the Gospel. Here are some testimonies from those who gave public witness to their Christian faith:
“After an impartation of the Holy Spirit [at Holy Hour], I felt empowered to share God’s love with others... But that morning, I felt fear and trepidation. When our team arrived at University and Snelling, it took everything I had to open my mouth to speak to others. Only two people allowed us to pray for them. … Two people … who would not have had that blessing had we not been there! Praise God!” -Heidi Mischke, leader of one of the “Healing Prayer” teams.
“While the weather was cold, the public reception was warm. ... One team member described the overall experience as, ‘An easy way to break the seal of ministry and evangelization.’ [It] showed that we all have the ability to evangelize and share the good news, one simply needs to find the ministry style that intrigues. During the two hours of our street ministry, we prayed over three individual walkers. We utilized signs and friendly greetings to foster conversations. Those that took the time to stop, welcomed our offers of free prayers. …The street ministry left the team feeling excited and empowered for future opportunities, to share the good news of Jesus Christ.”
-Matthew Sherf, leader of the "Walking with Christ, Life's Summit" team stationed on boulevard of Summit Avenue.
“What was it like to be a part of St. Mark’s in the Parks? Watching a Catholic high schooler and a Marxist thirty-year-old dialoguing respectfully, sharing a smile and a bite to eat… Witnessing young Robert bust out his best dance moves and offer us his finest Candyland candy bricks as he stopped by our evangelization station with his Aunt... Discussing and appreciating the Sacred Heart devotion with a gruff downtown dweller… These are just a few scenes from our station. It was an incredibly joyous time being on the streets for the sole sake of Christ and sharing the gospel. Each team member said they can’t wait to do it again. Will you join us?” -Howie Gerstner, leader of the “Sharing the Living Water” team that went to Rice Park in downtown St. Paul to distribute bottled water and Christian cheer.
"It was amazing to see the body of Christ at work on Saturday. I unloaded the wagon, cookies, and flyers with hopes of having great conversations. However, my time was mostly spent chasing after my kids. Despite my limited abilities, so many other St. Markers were having great interactions with those at Minnehaha Falls. Quite a few people even said they were looking for a church! Perhaps some just need an invitation and we all have some small part to play.” -Wendy Salisbury, co-leader of the “Taste and See the Sweetness of the Lord” team, who gave out cookies and coupons to the Fish Fry.
“What hit me most was how many walked by without prayer. Some saw the sign as they were protesters and then kept walking. It made me realize how much our neighbors need prayers.” -Larry Leif, whose team offered intercessory prayer in downtown St. Paul
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