Para la versión en español, haga clic aquí.
Spring has finally sprung, and we are more than halfway through Lent! It’s time to rejoice!
The 4th Sunday of Lent, also called Laetare Sunday, is a day of joy during a penitential season. It is one of two days in our Church Year for rose-colored vestments. Just as we light a rose candle on the Advent wreath and priests may wear rose vestments on the 3rd Sunday of Advent (Gaudete Sunday), priests may wear rose vestments for Laetare Sunday. Both Gaudete and Laetare are Latin words that mean “Rejoice!” (Note: On both of these Sundays, a priest may also wear violet vestments.)
Every Sunday of Lent—and of the entire Church Year—is a “little Easter” because on Sunday, the Lord’s Day, we remember and celebrate Christ’s Resurrection. That’s why the Sundays of Lent aren’t counted in the 40 days of Lenten sacrifice.
We pray that others may see the joy of Christ’s Resurrection in your words and actions all through the year.
Image credit: iStock.com/glebchik