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News
Lisbellaw Rector to embark on 12-hour sit-out for charity
Revd William Jeffrey.
The Rector of Lisbellaw Parish Church with Coolbuck, Revd William will be embarking on a 12-hour ‘Black Santa’ sit-out to raise crucial funds for Fermanagh Women’s Aid and for parish funds.
The sit-out at Lisbellaw Parish Church is between 6.30am and 6.30pm on Wednesday, 20th December.
The Black Santa initiative dates back to the 1970s when Dean Sammy Crooks, who was Dean of Belfast, began the tradition of sitting out in front of Belfast Cathedral collecting money for charity. The Black Santa is a reference to the black robes and cloak that are donned by the priest during the sit-out.
The event has remained and grown prominence in Belfast over the last four decades and has since been adopted by other parishes from across the island of Ireland in more recent years.
The Revd William Jeffrey explained that the church will also open its doors during the 12-hour sit-out to provide quiet and safe sanctuary for all who might benefit from it.
“The Black Santa initiative is something I have been a huge admirer and supporter of, and I thought there was a good opportunity this year to partake in the event to not only support an extremely worthwhile charity in Women’s Aid Fermanagh, but also to harness a positive community spirit in what can be a very busy and stressful time,” he added.
“The Mothers’ Union have highlighted key issues of domestic violence against women and the sad fact that these instances can often increase during holiday periods. Therefore, we are using Black Santa to raise awareness of these issues and the important work that Women’s Aid Fermanagh carries out, as well as to foster a sense of unity throughout Lisbellaw and beyond.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone in advance for their support and generosity towards this event, and wish everyone a very happy, healthy and blessed Christmas with their loved ones.”
Donations to the Lisbellaw Parish Church Black Santa appeal can be made in person at the church on Wednesday, 20 December from 6.30am to 6.30pm, with the entirety of donations going directly to Women’s Aid Fermanagh and parish funds.