In the Roman Catholic Church and the Anglican Communion the third Sunday in ADVENT is sometimes called Gaudete Sunday Gaudete means “rejoice” in Latin. This name comes from the first line of the introit (opening prayer) for the third Sunday in Advent, which encourages parishioners to “rejoice in the Lord always.” Although Advent ushers in a period of penance and spiritual preparation, Gaudete Sunday introduces the theme of joy. The lighter mood is reflected in the change in liturgical colors, from the purple of the Advent season to the rose color adopted for Gaudete Sunday. In addition, on Gaudete Sunday parishioners may decorate the church with flowers, and the organ, usually silent during Advent, may be played.