What is special about the Third Sunday of Advent?
For much of the Church’s history, this Sunday had a special name: “Gaudete” Sunday. The traditions surrounding this Sunday go back as far as the fourth or fifth century, as does the season of Advent itself. Advent, our preparation for Christmas, was originally a forty-day penitential season like Lent. In fact, since it used to begin on November 12 (just after the Memorial of St. Martin of Tours), it was called “St. Martin’s Lent.” “Gaudete Sunday” was the Advent counterpart to “Laetare Sunday,” which marks the midpoint in Lent.
On Gaudete Sunday, the season of Advent shifts its focus. For the first two weeks of Advent, the focus can be summed up in the phrase, “The Lord is coming.” But beginning with Gaudete Sunday, the summary might be, “The Lord is near.” This shift is marked by a lighter mood and a heightened sense of joyous anticipation. Liturgically, the colors lighten as well. The priest usually wears rosecolored
vestments, a hue seen only on Gaudete Sunday and Laetare Sunday. On this day, we light the third candle of the Advent wreath, which is also rose-colored, or if you prefer, pink.
The word “Gaudete” is Latin for “Rejoice.” In times when the focus of our anticipation is often on the negative and fearful, this celebration is a reminder that God who loves us is still in charge and that we await his coming not with fear, but with tremendous joy.
Today’s Second Collection
Elderly religious have offered a lifetime of service. Now they need your help. Please consider donating to the Retirement Fund for Religious collection this weekend. Learn more at retiredreligious.org.
Walking With Moms in Need
During Advent, we remember Mary’s journey to motherhood. Today, many women are in need of support. Take the pledge to pray and serve women facing challenging or unexpected pregnancies and learn more about how you can help. Visit https://
www.walkingwithmoms.com.
Pope Francis’s Birthday
On Thursday, December 17, Pope Francis celebrates his 84th birthday!