Gaudete Sunday is the third Sunday of Advent in the liturgical calendar of Western Christianity, including the Roman Catholic Church, the Anglican Communion, Lutheran churches, and other mainline Protestant denominations. The name derives from the Latin word “Gaudete,” meaning “Rejoice,” which is the first word of the introit antiphon for the day: “Gaudete in Domino semper” (“Rejoice in the Lord always”). It serves as a joyful midpoint in the Advent season, which otherwise has a penitential character, symbolizing the nearness of the Lord’s coming. On this day, rose-colored vestments are worn instead of the usual violet or deep blue, and in churches with an Advent wreath, the third candle—often called the “Shepherd’s Candle”—is lit in rose color, marking a shift from the more solemn tone of the preceding weeks. The theme emphasizes Christian joy, anticipation of Christmas, and the mission of John the Baptist, with readings focused on rejoicing in the Lord and preparing for the Savior’s arrival.
The third Sunday of Advent in the liturgical calendar of the church year. The term is derived from the Latin opening words of the introit antiphon, “Rejoice (Gaudete) in the Lord always.” The theme of the day expresses the joy of anticipation at the approach of the Christmas celebration. This theme reflects a lightening of the tone of the traditional Advent observance. It was appropriate for the celebrant of the Mass to wear rose-colored vestments on this day instead of the deeper violet vestments that were typically used in Advent. This Sunday was also known as “Rose Sunday.” This custom is reflected by the practice of including a pink or rose-colored candle among the four candles of an Advent wreath.
The Introit antiphon is a brief, scriptural refrain, typically drawn from the Psalms or other parts of the Bible, that is sung or recited at the beginning of the Mass in the Roman Rite of the Catholic Church. It is the central element of the Introit, which is also known as the Entrance Antiphon or Entrance Chant. The antiphon is sung at the beginning and end of the Introit, framing the psalm verse and the Gloria Patri doxology. It is intended to highlight the thematic focus of the liturgical day, such as longing during Advent or joy during Eastertide. The antiphon is usually a succinct phrase that sets the tone for the celebration and is repeated after the psalm verse and doxology. Historically, the antiphon was sung antiphonally, but over time, the structure evolved to emphasize the antiphon’s importance, with the psalm being shortened to a single verse. The antiphon is an essential part of the Proper of the liturgy, meaning it changes according to the liturgical season or feast day.
