Laetare Sunday- Rejoice.

Laetare Sunday- Rejoice.

How is your Lenten journey progressing?  

Are you feeling weary and ready for a little break?

In Lent, we have the tradition to have a mid-Lent break, (the half way point of Lent), which is known as 'Laetare' Sunday derived from the Latin 'to rejoice'. Liturgically we break away from the Lenten penitential spirit of the purple vestments to the wearing of rose-coloured vestments by the priest and/or deacon.  These rose-coloured vestments are only worn twice a year, so from a practical perspective, some parishes do not have a set, but use lighter purple vestments.

The fourth Sunday of Lent is also known as 'let up Sunday' because we 'let up' on our Lenten penance. It can be a timely reminder for those of us who may have struggled through Lent so far.  I remember thinking during one of my disastrous Lents that we had reached the midpoint, and I had not got started.  It is an excellent time to review how our Lenten journey and tweak it accordingly.  Never too late to start and/or start again.

It is also known as 'Mothering Sunday', coming from the ancient Roman tradition, when a festival of motherhood and fertility was held at this time. It was linked to the fact that the whole earth seemed to be fertile at this time. (Spring).   This festival was also known 'Matronalia,' and was celebrated by making cakes out of grains of cereal or pounded almonds.  Simmel cake and the creamy egg custard pudding were traditional menu items.

The Church took over these festivals and gave them new meaning by highlighting the dignity of women and motherhood through the image of Mary.  Through Mary, the dignity and status of Christian mothers was 'iced on the Catholic menu'.

Another important tradition of the Mothering Sunday is to to honour 'Mother Church'.  We can do this simply by visiting the cathedral (Mother Church of the diocese) on this day (or if not, sometime during this week). By doing this, we can gain a greater understanding of the great reality of the Church as our Mother and Bride of Christ.

Let us rejoice as we universally celebrate 'Laetare' Sunday.