Dear friends in Christ,
Today the whole Church takes a breath of joy. Gaudete Sunday—“Rejoice Sunday”—cuts through the stillness of Advent and reminds us that joy is at the very heart of the Christian life. Not superficial happiness that comes and goes, but a deep spiritual joy rooted in the nearness of Christ.
The rose candle we light today isn’t just decorative—it’s a sign. A sign that even amid darkness, God’s light is growing. Even in difficult times, Christ is drawing near. Even when we don’t feel joyful, joy is still something God desires for us.
This week, I invite you to practice a “spiritual noticing.” Each evening, look back over your day and ask yourself: Where did I experience grace? Where did God surprise me with a small joy? It might be a kind word, a moment of quiet, a beautiful snowfall, a memory that warms your heart, or simply the gift of making it through a tough day.
Joy grows when we name it.
As we move into the final stretch of Advent, may you feel the quiet joy of knowing that Christ is already close—closer than we think, closer than we deserve, and always eager to draw us into His loving heart.
Rejoice—the Lord is near!
Pax et Bonum,
Fr. Andy