The Third Week of Advent: December 14, 2025
Third Sunday of Advent
The Shepard Candle
The candle name for the Third Week of Advent is called the shepherd candle.
This week reminds us of the joy the shepherd experienced when hearing the Gospel proclaimed to them by the angels. In Luke we read, “And they went with haste, and found Mary and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.” And when they saw it, they made known the saying which had been told them concerning this child; and all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them,” (Luke 2:16-18). I am sure they were filled with immense joy that they could not contain themselves. The joy of the Gospel consumed these shepherds. Why wouldn’t it? All their lives they prayed for this moment; now it is here. The wait is finally over!
The Third Sunday is traditionally called Gaudete Sunday, which means “joy.” This candle is pink as it represents the shepherds rejoicing over the birth of Jesus. Christians are called to be people of joy. Even during suffering, one can experience joy. True joy goes beyond the emotion of delight in obtaining whatever good thing we have received. Spiritual joy, a fruit of the Holy Spirit, is identical in the deep part of our spirit.
That is where we live the life of charity, where we are living in God’s grace. Joy is identical to love. It’s a kind of way in which we express love because of course, when we have the good whom, we desire, then of course the natural reaction is joy and joy is a kind of rest or satisfaction in the good thing that we have been hoping to obtain and finally obtain by the grace of God. Joy, then like love, is a free choice. Jesus experienced joy despite the sorrowful mysteries of His life. We too can choose joy amid our suffering. With the Lord, our joy is complete, and nothing can take that away from us. How is Jesus inviting you to experience greater joy this Advent?
Prayer for the Third Week of Advent:
“Dear Jesus, help us focus on you during this busy season. May we stay aware of the joy you bring into our lives. We want to find you in the everyday moments and come with hearts of gratitude to your manger on Christmas. Amen.”