Laetare Sunday: What is that Pink (or Rose) Sunday in Lent Called Again?

Happy Laetare Sunday! It's that Pink Sunday - "Coral Sunday" - in Lent again.

But why is it called Laetare Sunday? 

And ...

Why do the priests wear pink? Or coral? Or rose? Or whatever? 

The fourth Sunday of Lent is known as "Laetare Sunday". It's the Sunday when priests wear "pink" or, as many a fine masculine priest has corrected me, "coral".  

What is that Pink Sunday in Lent called Laetare Sunday?

The name "Laetare Sunday" is taken from the Introit at Mass, Laetare Jerusalem which means "Rejoice, O Jerusalem." This Scripture comes from the Prophet Isaiah, specifically Isaiah 66:10-11.

Laetare Sunday marks the halfway point of Lent. All that beautiful prayer, fasting, and almsgiving - you are halfway through keeping your commitments! Or, you need to redouble your efforts. 

"Rejoice, O Jerusalem!" because this is a day of joy! We are so close to Easter and Jesus' Resurrection. The day of our resurrection, too! 

If you're still asking yourself why "prayer, fasting, and almsgiving", here is a great article to read over about our threefold sacrifice correlating with Jesus' three temptations:

But Why Pink? Why does the priest wear rose colored vestments on the fourth Sunday of Lent?

The priests only wear rose vestments twice during the liturgical year. Priests wear pink for the third Sunday of Advent and the fourth Sunday of Lent. 

Pink or Rose is worn on these days to show joy and love as we anticipate Christ's coming, both His birth and His Resurrection. This bright pink color reminds Catholics of joy in the midst of penance and anticipation.

Laetare Sunday or Gaudete Sunday?

Laetare Sunday also corresponds with Gaudete Sunday. Gaudete Sunday is the halfway mark of the Advent season. The priests wear rose-colored liturgical vestments on Gaudete Sunday, as well. The altar, too, is often decorated with roses. 

Laetare Sunday Infographic

Want more information about Laetare Sunday? Here is a nice infographic about Laetare Sunday:

Did you know Laetare Sunday is also called "Mothering Sunday"? Pretty awesome!

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