Gaudete Sunday is the third Sunday of Advent in the Christian calendar. It can fall on any date from 11 December to 17 December. The term Gaudete is broadly translated from Latin as Rejoice, a word that appears in the entrance antiphon (introit) of masses held on this day: Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, rejoice! The Lord is near. (Catholic Mass years A, B and C).
On Gaudete Sunday the rose coloured Advent candle is lit at Mass, and the celebrant might wear rose coloured vestments. During the otherwise penitential season of Advent the readings on the third Sunday emphasise the joyous anticipation of the Lord's coming.
See also: Laetare Sunday
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