“Gaudete” is the Latin word for “rejoice.” Gaudete is theme of the third Sunday of Advent. This poem was submitted by Alice Bampton, a member of the Communications and Marketing Dept. in Falvey.

Gaudete by Brad Reynolds, S.J.

Because Christmas is almost here

Because dancing fits so well with music

Because inside baby clothes are miracles.

Gaudete

Because some people love you

Because of chocolate

Because pain does not last forever

Because Santa Claus is coming.

Gaudete

Because of laughter

Because there really are angels

Because your fingers fit your hands

Because forgiveness is yours for the asking

Because of children

Because of parents.

Gaudete

Because the blind see.

And the lame walk.

Gaudete

Because lepers are clean

And the deaf hear.

Gaudete

Because of Christmas

Because of Jesus

You rejoice.