The Third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday, marks a moment of joy and anticipation in the midst of the traditionally penitential season of Advent; a time of reflection, prayer, and preparation for the coming of Christ at Christmas. The name “Gaudete” is derived from the Latin word for “rejoice,” the first word of the traditional Introit for this Mass. It reflects the essence of this Sunday as a time to rejoice in the Lord’s impending arrival.
Liturgical Customs of Gaudete Sunday
The liturgical customs of Gaudete Sunday serve to enhance the spiritual experience of the faithful. One of the most prominent features of this Sunday is the use of rose colored vestments and altar decorations. The rose color is used only twice a year, once in Advent and again in Lent (on Laetare Sunday). The color symbolizes joy and hope, contrasting with the more subdued purple (violet) typically used during Advent. Purple is a combination of red (which is the color of martyrdom) and blue (which in western culture typically symbolizes sadness). Rose is purple with some of the blue taken out. Hence this shift in color serves as a visual reminder that, although we are in a season of preparation and waiting, we are also called to rejoice in the promise of Christ’s coming.
In many parishes here in the United States, an Advent wreath is placed in the sanctuary and adorned with a rose colored candle, which is lit on Gaudete Sunday. This candle represents joy and signifies the halfway point in the Advent season. The lighting of this candle invites the faithful to reflect on the joy that comes from the anticipation of Christ’s birth, reminding us that joy is an integral part of our faith journey (Cf., 1 Thessalonians 5:16).
The readings for Gaudete Sunday also contribute to the theme of joy. This year (Cycle C) the first reading is from the prophet Zephaniah, who calls the people of Israel to rejoice because the Lord is in their midst (Zephaniah 3:14-18). The Gospel reading features John the Baptist, who encourages the crowds to prepare for the coming Messiah with joyful and generous hearts (Luke 3:10-18). These scriptural passages reinforce the message that joy is rooted in our relationship with God and the hope that He brings.
Music also plays a vital role in the celebration of Gaudete Sunday. Many churches incorporate hymns and songs that reflect the theme of rejoicing. Traditional Advent carols may be sung, but with a more upbeat and celebratory tone. Like the vestments and the readings, the music is meant to uplift the hearts of the assembly, and foster a sense of communal joy and anticipation as we prepare for the coming of Christ.
Theological Significance of Joy
The theological significance of Gaudete Sunday cannot be overstated. After the presidential election last month, at least half the country is feeling more hopeful for the coming year. But the other half is melting down – convinced we are entering a time of despair, division, and uncertainty, rather than leaving one. But for Catholics and other Christians, our hope and joy do not depend on current circumstances. For us, each Advent is a call to rejoice and is a powerful reminder of the hope that our faith provides no matter what year it is or who is in the white house. That’s because Christian Joy is not merely an emotional feeling, rather, it is a profound response to the presence of God in our lives.
The prophet Isaiah said that the Christ would be called “Emmanuel” which means “God with us.” But unlike Isaiah we already enjoy the presence of Christ in our lives. As we prepare for the liturgical coming of Christ at Christmas (and for His coming in glory at the end of time) Gaudete Sunday invites us to reflect on the joy that comes from knowing that we are loved, and that God is with us.
Furthermore, this Sunday serves as a reminder that joy is an essential aspect of the Christian life. It encourages us to cultivate a spirit of joy, even amidst challenges and trials. Again, the joy of Gaudete Sunday is not dependent on our circumstances but is rooted in the assurance of God’s love and the promise of salvation through Christ.
So, Gaudete Sunday is a beautiful celebration that combines liturgical and cultural customs to express the joy of the Advent season. Lighting the rose candle, wearing the rose vestments, and singing the joyful music remind us of the hope and joy that Christ brings into our lives. The Church calls us to rejoice, to prepare our hearts for the coming of the Lord, and to share that joy with others. This is the true spirit of Advent, looking forward to the celebration of Christ’s birth with hearts full of joy and anticipation. And that’s no nonsense.