“Rejoice with Jerusalem, and be glad for her,
all you who love her;
rejoice with her in joy,
all you who mourn over her;” — Isaiah 66:10
From The Episcopal Church:
“The fourth Sunday of Lent in the Roman Catholic liturgical calendar. The term is derived from the opening words of the Latin Mass, “Rejoice (Laetare) Jerusalem” (Is 66:10). The church is called to joyful anticipation of the victory to be won. This joyful theme provides lightening from the penitential emphasis of Lent.”
This year “Refreshment Sunday” or “Laetare Sunday” was on March 15th. Given its close proximity to the Feast of St. Patrick, patron saint of Ireland, here at St. John’s we celebrated Refreshment Sunday with a potluck lunch consisting of traditional Irish fare: corned beef and cabbage; potatoes; carrots; lots of soda bread; delicious green treats; and a variety of desserts. Everyone enjoyed a hearty Irish meal and each other’s company. Thanks to everyone who brought something to share and/or joined us for lunch!
