Injustice Advent Calendar offers ethical countdown to Christmas

Over 20 charities have come together to launch a digital advent calendar aimed at helping people make the world a better place in the run-up to Christmas.

Instead of counting down the days to Christmas with the usual chocolate treats, the digital Injustice Advent Calendar offers one positive action a day behind each window. 

The activities are designed to be quick and easy, and give an insight into the work of a particular charity or project.

"There's a huge variety of quick and fun actions that help you make an impact and learn something new," said Charlotte Timson, CEO of Traidcraft Exchange, the international development charity behind the initiative.

"Craftivism for more cancer nurses, spotting the signs of modern-day slavery, boosting bees in your local area or learning tips for a zero-waste Christmas – it's all here."

Behind each door is a practical action for people to take.

Other organisations involved in the initiative include Anti-Slavery International, Bees for Development, Fashion Revolution, Macmillan Cancer Support, National Deaf Children's Society, RSPCA and The Sumatran Orangutan Society.

The digital advent calendar is being launched as a zero-cost and environmentally-friendly alternative to the often costly consumerism of Christmas.

Timson continued, "As the world continues to battle the Covid pandemic and confront the climate emergency, people need hope and meaning more than ever.

"At its heart, Christmas is about connection and compassion – and this helps us do that, while taking a stand against mass consumerism.

"So many people want to live in a kinder fairer world, and this advent calendar is one small move in that direction."

Sign up to take part in the calendar at www.traidcraftexchange.org.uk/injustice-advent-calendar from 8 November.

News
Pope seeks prayers for peace in Christmas Day message
Pope seeks prayers for peace in Christmas Day message

The Pope asked people to pray in particular for the "tormented people of Ukraine" in his Christmas Day 'Urbi et Orbi' message. 

Who was St Stephen and why is he remembered on December 26?
Who was St Stephen and why is he remembered on December 26?

The carol says, “Good King Wenceslas last looked out on the Feast of Stephen.” In many countries, December 26, also known as Boxing Day, is better known as St Stephen’s Day. Stephen was the first Christian martyr. This is the story …

King Charles reflects on pilgrimage, reconciliation and hope in Christmas Day address
King Charles reflects on pilgrimage, reconciliation and hope in Christmas Day address

King Charles III used his Christmas Day speech to reflect on the significance of pilgrimage as he appealed to the nation "to cherish the values of compassion and reconciliation". 

2 Timothy 3:16 is Logos' Bible verse of the year, Matthew was the most studied book
2 Timothy 3:16 is Logos' Bible verse of the year, Matthew was the most studied book

One of the most-studied Bible verses of the year is from 2 Timothy in the New Testament, according to an analysis of millions of Bible study sessions that tracked how believers worldwide are engaging with Scripture.