Where else would people thank you for taking their money?

The sun was shining through the clouds and vehicles were moving slowly as the Monday morning traffic brought people into the city for another day.

This year, the sit-out began yesterday morning and runs until Saturday, December 23, and the barrel and the various Black Santas are in place outside the cathedral from 8.45am to 6pm each day.

This is my 11th sit-out, but the 41st since the first one — which was organised by Dean Sammy Crooks, the original Black Santa.

I was joining Stephen Forde, who is to be installed as the new Dean on Sunday, February 4.

He was suitably attired with his “L” plates as he looks forward to his new role and ministry.

Gerry was our first generous contributor, arriving at 8.45 as the city was coming to life.

The experience of being part of the sit-out is humbling, inspiring and joyful.

There are so many people who come every year and give us their thanks for taking their money from them.

Where else would you ever have people thank you for taking their money?

There are bags of coins, wads of notes and cheques from various individuals and groups.

The generosity of people is amazing and it is a delight to know that the money collected will help support local charities.

There is also much laughter and banter, as people stop to put their gift in the barrel and cars stop and wind down the window and bid us to take their money, so that they do not have to find a place to park.

The buzz is tangible and the experience is enriching. If you get a chance, please come and be a part of the generosity of this moment and enjoy something of what is the essence of Christmas — a love that gives and gives to others.

You can also donate to the 2017 Black Santa Appeal by:

Cheque (made payable to Sit-out and posted to: Belfast Cathedral, Donegall Street, Belfast, BT1 2HB).

BACS transfer to: Bank of Ireland, sort code 90-21-27, account number 60907288.

Online by clicking the Donate Now button at www.belfastcathedral.org (scroll down to Black Santa Sit-out Appeal).