What exactly do religious street preachers hope to accomplish?

It’s not like shouting out pre-selected biblical passages in people’s faces in a town square is going to automatically change a person’s position on faith.

From what I’ve seen even Muslims know better than that. A group of Muslims have an Islam information stand set up in Dublin (outside the GPO). They sit there silently waiting on people to approach them with questions. Then when you turn around the corner, from time to time you will see a very loud Christian man screaming through mic and amp. It’s actually damaging to the ears.

At least the Muslims are trying to at least give the impression of peace and respect in my experience. I don’t share their faith obviously, but I do have to agree their approach more favorable.