The Fourth Sunday of Lent is called Laetare Sunday. This word comes from Latin and means: 'Rejoice', and on this day the Church invites the faithful to rejoice because Easter is approaching, the day on which Christ conquered sin and death.
Strictly speaking, the Thursday before Laetare Sunday is the day marking the middle of Lent, and was once observed as such, but then the special signs of joy permitted on this day were transferred to the following Sunday, intended to encourage to the faithful as they course through the season of penance.
We do not rejoice because Christ is going to suffer on Good Friday, we rejoice because Christ has defeated death on Resurrection Sunday. We are glad to know that we can overcome the evils and worries that surround us with the strength that comes from our faith in God. Therefore: Rejoice!
Fr.. Tarcisio
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