Today is Gaudete Sunday. That is Latin for the first word in today’s Entrance Chant. It means Rejoice! Today we also wear rose vestments in contrast to the violet we have been wearing. Rejoice because Christmas is just over a week away. Come, Lord Jesus!
The theme in our readings today is rejoicing! The Prophet Zephaniah tells us: “Shout for joy, O daughter Zion! Sing joyfully, O Israel! Be glad and exalt with all your heart, O daughter Jerusalem!” Come, Lord Jesus!
Saint Paul continues this theme in the second reading: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice! Your kindness should be known to all. The Lord is near.”
In today’s Gospel, John the Baptist tells the people how to rejoice: “Whoever has two cloaks should share with the person who has none. And whoever has food should do likewise.” He goes on to say Jesus is coming after him and that Jesus is greater than he. “Exhorting them in many other ways, he preached good news to the people.” The best news was that Jesus was near!
Let us continue to pray for peace in the world. Let us also pray for vocations to the church. Let us pray for the sick of the parish. Let us pray that all will come to respect life. Let us pray for one another and for the canonization of Father Tolton. Let us also pray for those who are victims of sexual abuse and mass shootings.
A Father Tolton Prayer:Father in Heaven, Father Tolton’s suffering service sheds light upon our sorrows; we see them through the prism of your Son’s passion and death. If it be your Will, O God, glorify your servant Father Tolton, by granting the favor I now request through his intercession (mention your request) so that all may know the goodness of this priest whose memory looms large in the Church he loved. Complete what you have begun in us that we might work for the fulfillment of your kingdom. Not to us the glory, but glory to you O God, through Jesus Christ, your Son and our Lord; Father, Son and Holy Spirit, you are our God, living and reigning forever and ever. Amen.