The word advent is derived from Latin word, adventus, that means “arrival, coming”. Advent, being the season that begins the Catholic Church’s liturgical year, is intended to be a period of preparation for the coming of Jesus.
On Sundays of Advent season, the Church lights candles in an Advent Wreath which has 4 candles symbolizing hope, peace, joy and love.
The color associated with this season is purple which is the color of penance. With this, the faithful is invited to do self-preparation and receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation particularly in the first two weeks of the season.
The third Sunday of the season is called “Gaudete Sunday” with gaudete meaning “rejoice” in Latin. This particular Sunday in the season is associated with the rose color that symbolizes joy in the celebration of being with Jesus again in His coming.
In this season of Advent, let us have a moment to reflect on our faithful journey this year and have time to reconcile with people whom we had difficulties with. May we have a prayerful heart as we wait for the coming of our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Reference/s:
Definition of Advent: https://www.catholic.org/advent/advent.php?id=5
Advent: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Advent
