Sunday Inspiration - Gaudete Sunday

Today is Gaudete Sunday, the day during this time of Advent when we joyously look forward to what this whole season is leading to: Christ coming into the world. For this reason, the Priest and Deacon put on Rose colored vestments. As Pius Parsch tells us, "The Church modifies her colors; instead of violet she uses rose, a softened hue of violet and thus a compromise between the colors symbolizing penance and joy." In the Gospel reading we hear St. John the Baptist telling us that one mightier than himself is coming to baptize us with the Holy Spirit.

We also hear from St. Paul today; his words guiding us to joyful preparation for the coming of the Lord (Phil 4:4-7):

"Brothers and sisters: Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice! Your kindness should be known to all. The Lord is near. Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."

One thing that I believe is something to rejoice about is the Church that Christ created here on earth. With all of the negative things said about the Church, and sometimes done by members of the Church, it is easy for people to have a negative view of it. The tradition of the Church, however, is so rich, so beautiful, and so alive. We need not forget that; in fact, we need to celebrate that.

Over at the blog The Hermeneutic of Continuity, Fr. Tim Finigan recently posted the video I have below. It is a trailer for a film project known as The Catholic Project. Here is the description from their You Tube channel: "Join Fr. Robert Barron on a journey across the planet and deep into the faith. CATHOLICISM is a breakthrough documentary series presenting the true story of Christianity and the Catholic faith." This film is due to be released in 2010. The trailer for this project is truly inspiring.



I pray today that you will be inspired by and rejoice in all of the beauty and tradition that the Church offers us, from the scripture to the liturgy, from the sights to the sounds, by all that Our Lord has blessed us with.