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By Dunford Cole

I’m often asked one particular question during the Season of Advent, “Why is the third Sunday of Advent different from the others?” 

The third Sunday of Advent is called “Gaudete Sunday” which is Latin for “Rejoice.” The Apostle Paul writes in the book of Philippians, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I say, rejoice. Indeed, the Lord is near.” 

On this Sunday a pink or rose-colored candle is lit signifying that Christmas Day is almost here and that we are halfway home! The Church is called to rejoice as we are reminded that Christ is the reason for the season and we, the church, are tasked to be a source of hope, peace, joy, and love. Therefore, we should not be worried or in distress in this holy season. 

We have been given the greatest opportunity in life, the joy of spreading the good news and sharing with others that “Emmanuel – God is with us” has come. 

Do you have joy? Do you have peace? Are you seeking Christ? If not, why? 

Let us rejoice because Jesus Christ is near! “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.” 

Happy Advent and Merry Christmas from all of us at Camp Ground – Rutledge Global Methodist Church!

Dunford Cole is pastor of Camp Ground/Rutledge Methodist Church and presiding elder for Six Rivers and Midpoint District.