Third Sunday of Advent

The Third Sunday of Advent, also known as Gaudete Sunday, bears significant importance in the season of Advent, celebrated by many Christians worldwide. The term 'Gaudete' is derived from the Latin word for 'rejoice'. This Sunday embodies a shift from repentance to rejoicing, reflecting the nearing of Christmas, the celebration of Jesus Christ's birth. In liturgical terms, the rose-coloured vestments and candles symbolise anticipation and preparation for the joy and new life that Jesus' birth brings.

Focused on penance and preparation in medieval Europe, Advent originally started in France and eventually spread to Germany and beyond. Particularly in Germany, the Third Sunday of Advent holds a central place in the pre-Christmas traditions. During the Advent period, German people place significant importance on symbolism, demonstrated through wreaths, candles, and calendars. The lighting of the rose candle on Gaudete Sunday marks the halfway point of Advent— a reminder that the wait for Christmas is halfway over.

In Germany, the Third Sunday of Advent is observed with various religious and cultural rituals. Worship services entail special readings and hymns about the joyful anticipation of Christ's birth. Families often gather to light the third advent candle—the rose one—on their wreaths. In terms of timing, the exact date of the Third Sunday of Advent varies each year, as it is determined by the ecclesiastical calendar. However, it always occurs on the third Sunday before Christmas Day, falling somewhere between December 11th and 17th.