So many of the rich images, words, and themes that will recur at the Easter Vigil are hinted in the day's readings and prayers — the anointing of David with oil, the enlightening of the man born blind in John, and the Letter to the Ephesians' call to "Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light."

Like the paschal exsultet in the middle of the darkness of the Easter Vigil, Laetare Sunday is a bright little burst of light and joy in the midst of Lent.

And, not coincidentally, it coincides with these first uncertain, hesitant bursts of springtime found in European and North American climates at this time of year.

Here in Washington, D.C., where I live, we have had 70-degree days followed by snow in the past week, and very confused crocuses attempting to push their way towards the sun.

The name "Laetare Sunday" comes from the introit text -

"Laetare Jerusalem: et conventum facite omnes qui diligitis eam"

"Rejoice, O Jerusalem: and come together all you that love her" Continue reading.

Brian Flanagan, Ph.D. is Assistant Professor of Theology at Marymount University in Arlington, Virginia.

Source: Daily Theology

Image: Marymount University