Gaudete Sunday - Third Week of Advent

12-17-2023Pastoral Reflections

Today, the third Sunday of Advent, is Gaudete, or “Rejoice”, Sunday. This name comes from the beginning of the entrance antiphon assigned to this day: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say rejoice. The Lord is near!”

Taking a break from purple, the royal and penitential color assigned to the rest of Advent, the priest and deacon are allowed to wear rose colored vestments today, as this color represents “hopefilled anticipation.”

Gaudete Sunday is a day for us to reflect on the fact that we will soon be celebrating the feast of Christmas, when we remember the Incarnation, God’s coming into our world as a man.