What is Gaudete Sunday? 3 Things to Know about the 3rd Sunday of Advent
The third Sunday of Advent is called Gaudete Sunday. Here are a few things to know about this important day during the Advent season:
1) What does Gaudete mean?
“Gaudete” is a Latin word meaning “rejoice.” It comes from the opening word of the introit (entrance song) of the third Sunday of Advent liturgy, which is derived from Philippians 4:4-5:
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, rejoice.
Indeed, the Lord is near.”
2) Why pink (rose)?
The priests wear rose colored vestments on this day. The third candle on the Advent wreath is rose (pink) as well.
While purple/violet is a color to signify prayer, penance, and preparation, the color change to rose signifies the joy we can experience now that Christmas is almost here.
3) Why the third Sunday?
By week three we have passed the half-way point of Advent. Jesus is near. Christmas is almost here.
So many people are tempted by the stresses of the holiday season. This third Sunday of Advent is a reminder to seek and spread joy in the coming of Christ.
So, here is your challenge during the third week of Advent: spread joy not stress! Be a source of joyful appreciation for all that God has given to you and share that joy with others.
The shift from purple/violet to pink/rose is similar to the Laetare Sunday during Lent, which similarly marks the half-way point of the penitential season leading up to Easter. Laetare is another word in Latin meaning “rejoice.”
Teachers/Catechists: Get the lesson plan and worksheet to accompany this video in The Religion Teacher’s Advent Activity Pack.
