My sit-out literally has a different look this year

EACH year for the Black Santa sit-out, I pull on thick socks and boots to keep my feet warm. I tightly fasten the traditional black cloak which gives its name to Black Santa, but this year there is more to do.

I had to fix my face-covering over my mouth. Somehow, I had to stop my glasses from steaming up. I had to ensure two-metre social distancing was maintained.

It is all part of that strange new world we have all entered, trying our best to keep ourselves and those we care most about safe in the days coming up to Christmas.

The first day of the sit-out can be hectic. The two bishops most involved Television crews also mark the first day of the sitout with interviews and questions.

Again, Covid-19 means speaking at a distance, reflecting on how the pandemic has changed every aspect of our daily lives.

It was a privilege to welcome the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Frank Mccoubrey, who stopped by to offer his encouragement for the success of this year’s Black Santa Appeal in the face of so much need caused by the pandemic.

In each conversation, whether with the First Citizen, or with cyclists, with shoppers, or the lady who donated the £20 found under her office carpet, each spoke of the need for all of us to keep safe in the days between now and Christmas; for face-coverings, social distancing and protecting all who are most vulnerable.

The help which the Black Santa Appeal will give in the New Year must be built on the protection we give to one another in the last days of this year.

in the life of the cathedral joined me for the first morning. But even bishops have to be masked and kept two metres apart.