Reflection for the Third Sunday of Advent and Preparatory Catechesis for the Jubilee Year 2025 with Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati by Br. Karlo Cruz, Council Moderator of Frassati Society Philippines

The Third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday, invites us to Rejoice in the Lord always (Philippians 4:4). The term Gaudete comes from the first word of the Entrance Antiphon, calling us to embrace joyful anticipation as Christmas draws near. The rose-colored candle and vestments used today signify a shift from the penitential tone of Advent to a spirit of rejoicing, reminding us that even amidst preparation and waiting, joy is at the heart of our journey.

In the first reading, the prophet Zephaniah proclaims, “The Lord is in your midst; you have no further misfortune to fear” (Zephaniah 3:15-17). This passage echoes the profound joy that comes from knowing God is present with us, even amid challenges. For Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, this joy was rooted in his relationship with Christ. Despite his personal struggles—family conflicts, academic pressure, and eventually his silent suffering from polio—Pier Giorgio radiated joy because his life was centered on God. He once said, “You ask me if I am in good spirits. How could I not be? As long as faith gives me strength, I will always be joyful.”

Is my joy deeply rooted in Christ? How can I let His presence shape my life more fully?

In the second reading, Saint Paul encourages us: “Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God” (Philippians 4:6). Pier Giorgio’s life exemplifies this teaching. Even as he faced his terminal illness, he bore it with grace and trust in God, offering his sufferings silently and joyfully. He found peace in prayer and in serving others, refusing to let his trials extinguish his spirit of hope.

This Advent, we are reminded to surrender our anxieties to the Lord. Like Pier Giorgio, we can discover peace by trusting in God’s love and being faithful in prayer.

What worries can I surrender to Christ today? How can I deepen my trust in God’s plan?

In today’s Gospel, the crowds ask John the Baptist, “What should we do?” (Luke 3:10-18). His response offers practical ways to prepare for the Lord: share generously, act justly, and live with integrity. Pier Giorgio embodied these principles throughout his life. He cared for the poor, often giving away his money and possessions to those in need. His service went beyond material generosity—he treated everyone with dignity and sought to uplift the marginalized.

Gaudete Sunday reminds us that joy is not dependent on external circumstances but is found in the hope of Christ’s nearness. Pier Giorgio’s motto, “Verso l’alto” (To the heights!), reflects the joy of striving for holiness even in life’s challenges. Like climbing a mountain, the journey of faith requires effort, trust, and perseverance, but the joy of reaching the summit is unparalleled.

This Advent, we are called to climb higher in our spiritual lives, preparing not only for the celebration of Christ’s birth but for His presence in our hearts. How can we, like Pier Giorgio, live as witnesses of authentic joy, inspiring others to seek Christ?

On this Gaudete Sunday, let us rejoice in the Lord, who is always near. Inspired by Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, may we live with joy, trust, and generosity, preparing our hearts to welcome Christ anew. In doing so, we reflect the light of His love to our families, friends, and communities, becoming true witnesses of hope and joy in a waiting world.

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