Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, rejoice. Let your forbearance be known to all, for the Lord is near at hand; have no anxiety about anything, but in all things, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be known to God. Lord, you have blessed your land; you have turned away the captivity of Jacob.
- Introit: 3rd Sunday of Advent (Philippians 4:4–6; Psalm 85:1)
Rejoice!
The above quote is the Introit for this past Sunday, from which it received the nickname "Gaudete Sunday." Gaudete means rejoice. We have reached the midpoint of Advent, and we rejoice in the good news of the coming of our savior at Christmas. This is why the rose candle is lit—that's right, rose not pink, and the priest wears rose vestments. The penitential character of Advent is relaxed as we anticipate the Nativity of Jesus Christ. We're almost there, and joy fills our hearts. So don't be a Scrooge as we approach Christmas. Testify to your faith with JOY!
Here is a clip of the Introit for the 3rd Sunday of Advent (the proper chant for the entrance procession at Mass). This is the beautiful and ancient Gregorian version in Latin:
Here is a clip of the Introit for the 3rd Sunday of Advent (the proper chant for the entrance procession at Mass). This is the beautiful and ancient Gregorian version in Latin:
Here is another beautiful version of the Introit in English, from the Simple English Propers.
Finally, here is the audio of my homily. Enjoy!
- Fr. Jeff
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