The Third Sunday in Advent has traditionally been called “Gaudete Sunday,” from the Latin word for “Rejoice!” We are called to repentance and rejoicing in the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. John the Baptist, languishing in prison, called upon Jesus and was strengthened by the Word of the Gospel that he received. St. Paul, also imprisoned for his preaching, encourages us to “rejoice in the Lord always,” knowing that the peace of God will guard and keep us in Christ Jesus.
