Diocesan News19 Dec 17

Black Santa Sit–out underway at Belfast Cathedral

The 41st Black Santa Sit–out got underway on the steps of St Anne’s Cathedral, Belfast, on Monday December 18.

Dean–Elect Archdeacon Stephen Forde, joined the Bishop of Connor, the Rt Rev Alan Abernethy, and the Bishop of Down and Dromore, the Rt Rev Harold Miller, for the launch.

Archdeacon Forde, who will be installed as Dean on February 4, was wearing L plates to indicate he is a Black Santa in training.

There were many donations big and small on the first day, including a gift of £950 from the British Deer Society’s NI Branch, raised at a Gala Banquet organised in partnership with the Ulster Reform Club.

A little bit of history was made on Tuesday when Mr Robert Kay became the first Lay Canon of St Anne’s Cathedral to take part in the Black Santa Sit–out.

Mr Kay, from Agherton Parish, Portstewart, and Mrs Myrtle Kerr of Clonallon and Warrenpoint with Kilbroney Parish, were installed as the Cathedral’s first ever Lay Canons back in January.

The weather has been mild and so far dry, which has meant a steady flow of passers–by stopping to drop off money. This year’s Sit–out is unique in that there is no Dean of St Anne’s to carry the Sit–out, but the Cathedral’s dedicated Chapter and Clergy are ensuring the 41st Sit–out goes ahead as usual.

The Belfast Telegraph is running a Black Santa Diary every day this week – so pick up a copy and read the thoughts of some of those taking part on the joys, and challenges, of being part of the Black Santa team.

Entry to the Cathedral is completely FREE for the duration of the Black Santa Sit–out, so please call by, make a donation, and take a look around and don’t miss the beautiful Nativity scene.

If you can’t make it to the Cathedral, Black Santa welcome online donations at: https://fundraise.charitycheckout.co.uk/belfastcathedral/cf/Black-Santa-Sit-out-Appeal