I learned this expression at the weekly construction meetings I take part in. The builders talk about the construction that has to go on underground and with the foundation and slab for the building; and then, as they say, we “go vertical.” As you have seen, our Pastoral Center has gone vertical in a big way. The framing of the building gives all of us a clear vision of how large the new center will be. It's exciting!
This ties in well with the theme of the Third Sunday of Advent. Its nickname is “Gaudete Sunday.” Gaudete is the first word of the Entrance Antiphon for this day in Latin, and it means “Rejoice!” The full text of the antiphon is “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, rejoice. Indeed the Lord is near.” (Phil. 4:4-5) Joy is a special theme for this day.
This is where it’s good to think of “going vertical” with our joy. Yes, we rejoice in the things around us; but let’s never forget what, and Who, is above us. By “going vertical” with our joy, we remember the meaning of this Advent and Christmas season. The Lord is near! May his joy live in us and pass through us to a world that longs for it.
