Today, 17 December, the Third Sunday of Advent, is Gaudete Sunday. It is so called because, in the ancient Roman Mass, the Introit for the day, taken from Psalm 84, began: "Gaudete in Domino semper" which means "Rejoice in the Lord always." This is a day whereon the discipline of Advent may be lightened, which relaxation is sometimes symbolized by the use of pink or rose vestments and the restoration of flowers to the altar (for just this one Sunday).

Padre