Bambinelli Sunday / Coffee Sunday -
Gaudette Sunday is the third Sunday of Advent, and Bambinelli Sunday is celebrated on this day.
It is a tradition begun by Pope St. John Paul II. He invited children to bring the Baby Jesus figures from their home Nativity scenes to church for a special blessing. This tradition encourages families to connect their home celebrations to the church and prepare their hearts for the arrival of Christ at Christmas. The blessing is given by the Pope in St. Peter’s Square and has since been adopted by parishes worldwide. We encourage our Basilica families to bring their Baby Jesus figures to Mass on Sunday, December 14 for this special blessing and to join us downstairs following Mass for Coffee Sunday.