The 3rd Sunday of Advent is traditionally called ‘Gaudete Sunday‘

Gaudete is the Latin word for rejoice, and is named after the first word of the Entrance Antiphon for Sunday’s Mass ‘Rejoice in the Lord always, I say , rejoice‘ (Philippians 4:4.5).

We light the Advent candle that is the symbol of joy.

The theme of the third week is to focus our intention on joy, and the deep happiness that comes from faith and trust. It’s also a time to reflect on the first half of the Advent season, as well as to look forward to the last two weeks.