Fourth Sunday in Lent | March 15 | Laetare Sunday

Laetare Sunday is the fourth Sunday in Lent in the western Christian liturgical calendar. This Sunday has been a day of celebration within the austere season of Lent, and gets its name from the first few words of the traditional entrance verses in Latin, Laetare, meaning Rejoice. On Laetare Sunday (as similarly with the Third Sunday of Advent’s Gaudete Sunday) the church expresses hope and joy in the midst of our Lenten wandering and fasting. The traditional color of pink/rose indicates a glimpse of the joy that awaits us at Easter. Before we enter the holy days of Passiontide, our music, prayers, and liturgical texts reflect this “mini” Easter. The gospel this Sunday is the story of the man born blind, healed by Christ. As we rejoice in healing and wholeness, we welcome and install the 2026 congregation officers and council leaders. We are God’s beloved children. Rejoice!