Gaudete Sunday is a counterpart to Laetare Sunday during Lent and provides a similar break about midway through a season which is otherwise of a penitential character, and signifies the nearness of the Lord's coming.

Gaudete is a bit hard to remember, but the derivation of the word is easy to recall. Gaudete means, Rejoice! Gaudete Sunday marks the mid-point of Advent. During the first two weeks of Advent the tone is more penitential and the lessons focus on being prepared for the return of Jesus.

Why is there one pink candle on the Advent wreath? It is called the “Shepard's Candle,” and is pink because rose is a liturgical color for joy. The third Sunday of Advent is Gaudete Sunday and is meant to remind us of the joy that the world experienced at the birth of Jesus, as well as the joy that the faithful have reached the midpoint of Advent.

Why rose colored vestments? Rose vestments are only worn twice in the liturgical year: during the third Sunday of Advent, and the fourth Sunday of Lent. These colors are worn on these days to show the joy and love in Christ.