Third Sunday of Advent for Catholics

Advent is typical for such branches of Christianity as Catholicism and Protestantism. The third Sunday of Advent is called Gaudete in Latin, which means “Rejoice.” This name comes from liturgical chant, in which believers are called to rejoicing and joy. The third Sunday of Advent is marked by the lighting of the third candle in churches, which is called the “Shepherds Candle.” The candles, lit one by one by the church pastor, are placed inside a spruce wreath. The wreath signifies the increasing anticipation of the birth of the Savior. On this day, believers honor the coming into their hearts through the Holy Word and Scripture of the Savior. And the name “Shepherds’ Candle” conveys the meaning of the newborn Christ seen by the shepherds, symbolizing faith and hope for salvation. The Third Sunday of Advent is the last and most important Sunday before Christmas, which, according to the Catholic calendar, occurs on the night of December 24-25. In the week before Christmas, believers gather in churches in prayer and with bright thoughts, meeting the Savior, first of all, within themselves, through turning to God. In Europe, the colors of Advent candles are important. The shades range from pink to purple. The third candle is usually pink. The choice of shades of the color scheme of candles is directly related to the color of the vestments of the clergy of the Catholic faith. The pink color of the third resurrection candle before Christmas symbolizes the blood of martyrs, the purple color represents repentance. Everywhere, starting from the first Advent Sunday, believers begin to decorate their homes and churches with wreaths, ribbons, garlands, and figurines of saints. On the third Sunday of Advent, churches are decorated with flowers and pink-colored items.