"Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing." (1 Thessalonians 5:16). The Third Sunday of Advent is Gaudete Sunday and we hear a different theme of "rejoice" in the Mass readings. As we observe this third Sunday of Advent we celebrate because we know the Lord is near! In many cultures and families, it is a tradition to decorate on or after Gaudete Sunday. So whether you have already decorated your tree or you are still waiting to do so, find the Blessing of a Christmas Tree online at https://nolacatholic.org/blessing-of-a-christmas-tree. On December 17, the "O" Antiphons begin. The Roman Church has been singing the "O" Antiphons since at least the eighth century. They are the antiphons that accompany the Magnificat canticle of Evening Prayer from December 17-23 and are a magnificent theology that uses ancient biblical imagery drawn from the messianic hopes of the Old Testament to proclaim the coming Christ as the fulfillment not only of Old Testament hopes, but present ones as well. Pray them along with us each day beginning today through December 23! https://nolacatholic.org/oantiphons