Bending the Arc references a quote by Rev. Dr. King who said, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” This digital newsletter from the CSA Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation office showcases the work of changemakers, opportunities to learn, and opportunities for you to help “bend the arc” toward justice. Full contents of the newsletter are published on this page.
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Thoughtful Gift Giving
November 21, 2025
Pilgrim United Church of Christ in Fond du Lac (535 Stow Street) is hosting their Annual Alternative Gift Fair on Sunday, December 7, approximately 10 - 11 am (following their 9 am worship service). The public is invited to attend!
This is a positive holiday experience that bypasses the annual steps of holiday shopping and the accumulation of “stuff” while honoring friends and relatives with donations that fit their values. The Annual Gift Fair provides critical support for a diverse collection of local, national, and international nonprofit organizations that have established track records of helping people - diverting money to these charities rather than to the department stores and malls. This year nine organizations will be represented. Shoppers are sure to find something for pet lovers, environmental enthusiasts, educators, and more.
Attendees use a “shopping list” with the names of all nine nonprofits who are represented at the fair. They can stroll the tables and talk to the organization’s sponsor who will have information to share about their mission and current projects. As shoppers browse, they can match the interests of those on their shopping lists with the charities there. Shoppers check out and pay for all gifts at once. They may pay by cash or check. The shopper then receives a gift card for each monetary gift donated to a designated charity that they can give to their recipient.
Your gift choices emphasize community, outreach, service, and justice - and honors the true meaning of Christmas.
One of this year’s featured organizations is Glacial Lakes Conservancy. On January 10, 2022, the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes (CSA) signed a Conservation Easement Document, in partnership with Glacial Lakes Conservancy (GLC), protecting 237 acres of Earth in perpetuity. CSA land, with its buildings, forests, prairies, wetlands, farm fields, cemetery, labyrinth, nature trails, and three stream channels running down the Niagara Escarpment will be protected from commercial development for all time. You can learn more about the easement here.
The local Just Fare Market will also be selling their goods at the December 7 Alternative Gift Fair.
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