Gaudete Sunday (Yep, it’s Latin)
This week is the Third Sunday in Advent. We know it as “Joy Sunday” with the pink candle in the Advent Wreath, and that is exactly right. Gaudete is Latin for “rejoice.” Advent was originally a forty day fasting season (like Lent) leading up to the Christmas Feast and in preparation for Christ’s return. The Mass for this Sunday begins with these words. “Gaudete in Domino semper,” or “Rejoice in the Lord always.” These words begin the reading from Philippians 4:4-7.
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
"Rejoice Sunday” is a moment to remember that the Lord is indeed near. It was a welcome intrusion of joy in the penitential season leading up to Christmas. This Sunday, we will join the shepherds in experiencing the joyous and overwhelming “multitude of heavenly hosts, praising God.” It is a welcome intrusion indeed as we continue to experience the current disruption in our individual and communal lives. May we join the heavenly host in its song, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!” Remember, that the Lord is near indeed!
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Alan