Blessed Third Sunday of Advent - known as Gaudete Sunday. Back in the days before calendars and clocks were part of the life of households, church bells and liturgical seasons let people know the when and where of their lives. The bells summoned people to worship or to gather in the church and various liturgical clues let them know about time of year. I am sure many could maintain awareness of the month and day of the week, but their life and time was guided by the celebration of faith. Such things are a few centuries in the rear view mirror for most, but the celebrations still continue and the marking of liturgical seasons and events are remembered.

Gaudete Sunday marks a slow transition from preparing for the End Times to remembering the Incarnation and Nativity of our Lord. Rejoice! Our time to celebrate the hope of humanity is drawing closer! Rejoice, for the great Master is arriving to gather to Himself all who will accept His person and embrace His Gospel! Rejoice, God's overall posture is one of reconciliation towards humanity! One need but be converted and "follow me" to begin the adventure of discipleship. The O Antiphons and the prophetic titles of the Christ also unfold today, a post further down the chain here at Padre's. Rejoice, the Lord is near! Blessed Sunday to all my neighbors!