Gaudete Sunday, in the Catholic, Anglican, and Lutheran traditions.

I’m first reader at church today. It’s the third Sunday of Advent, and the readings are about joy. After two weeks of readings about turmoil, repentance, and longing, we take a break and rejoice. The purple of penance and preparation gives way to the rose of joy, both in the vestments and in the third advent candle, lit for the first time today.

I do so love the way that the traditional practices shape and punctuate the year.

And here is the 16th Century hymn Gaudate, for your listening pleasure.