On the Second Sunday of the month, we offer the opportunity to celebrate Solemn Chanted Vespers (Evening Prayer of the Liturgy of the Hours), combined with the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament.
Join the universal Church in reflecting and giving thanks to Almighty God as the day comes to an end.
Following, the Marian Daughters will host a wine and cheese reception at the Foley House.
Rejoice!
Gaudete Sunday, the third Sunday of Advent, takes its name from the first word of the Mass Introit: “Gaudete in Domino semper…” (“Rejoice in the Lord always”). Marking a pause in Advent’s penitential tone, it highlights the nearness of the Lord’s coming with signs of joy in the liturgy, including rose vestments and constant Alleluias. This is to emphasize the joy of the coming Redemption.
The prayers and readings proclaim that Christ is close at hand, urging the faithful to rejoice, give thanks, and prepare their hearts to meet the Savior.
The Nocturn lessons from the Prophecy of Isaias describe the Lord's coming and the blessings that will result from it
In the Mass, the Introit "Gaudete in Domino semper" strikes the same note.
The antiphons at Vespers re-echo the prophetic promises.
The Epistle again incites us to rejoicing, and bids us prepare to meet the coming Saviour with prayers and supplication and thanksgiving.
The Gospel, the words of St. John the Baptist, warns us that the Lamb of God is even now in our midst, though we appear to know Him not.
Gaudete Sunday is further marked by a new Invitatory, the Church no longer inviting the faithful to adore merely "The Lord who is to come", but calling upon them to worship and hail with joy "The Lord who is now nigh and close at hand".