by Darius Gasatura
Rose Sunday
It is approximately 3 weeks before Easter and consequently does not have a precise set date but varies yearly based on Easter day.
Rose Sunday is so-called because the violet color of the Lenten season, used on the Altar and Priestly vestments, is temporarily substituted by the rose color. Rose Sunday typically represents a relaxation from the regular Lenten practices and focuses on celebration and rejoicing. Of the six Sundays during Lent, it is the only one that specifically pauses the consistent processes of lent in order to breathe new life into God’s faithful children.
Given that this Sunday is typically a celebratory one, flowers might be vested onto the altar, organ, and side chapels. This Sunday is meant to bring Christians closer to an understanding that Lent is not a time of suffering but a penitential season which anticipates the glorious resurrection of Christ at Easter. Basically, it gives a glimpse into the true understanding of Christ’s power.
One interesting fact about Rose Sunday is that weddings, which are usually not consecrated during Lent, can be performed on this day. It is also said that in times past, slaves and servants were released and allowed to visit their mothers which in turn dubbed this Sunday as ‘Mothering Sunday.’