Faith Formation

Q. Father, why do priests wear purple during the season of Advent?

A: You're very observant! You've probably also noticed that the altar cloth is purple, too, and if your church normally has flowers or plants near the altar, those have been removed. You may also have noticed that the Gloria ("Glory to God in the highest") is not sung during Advent, either. All of these things are signs of the penitential nature of Advent and a reminder that the Christmas season hasn't started yet. Advent was once known as a "little Lent," and so the penitential color of purple makes an appearance and the Gloria--one of the most festive hymns of the Mass – is NOT sung. Our thoughts, even on Sunday, are supposed to be on preparing ourselves for the coming of Christ, both at Christmas and at the Second Coming. Just as during Lent, however, the Church allows us some rest as we pass the halfway point of Advent. The third Sunday of Advent is known as Gaudete Sunday, because "Gaudete" ("Rejoice") is the first word of the entrance antiphon at that Mass. On that Sunday, your priest will likely wear rose vestments—a color that still reminds us of the penitential purple, but also has a lightness and joy to it, reminding us that Christmas is drawing near.

Due to the recent upturn in Covid cases here in Southwick, it is necessary to remind all who attend Mass that protocols must be adhered to completly.This especially means wearing masks properly; meaning, they MUST cover your nose, mouth and chin and fit securely. Your mask must stay on the entire time you are in the church and/or Marian Hall. This is to protect yourself and your neighbor. We thank you for your understanding during these challenging times we are living in.

Our Lady of the Lake Parish

Living Faith in Jesus Christ

Faith Formation

USCCB Daily Reading