LAETARE SUNDAY

fourth Sunday in Lent in the Western Christian Church, so called from the first word (Rejoice) of the introit of the liturgy. It is also known as mid-Lent Sunday, for it occurs just over halfway through Lent, and as Refreshment Sunday because it may be observed with some relaxation of Lenten strictness. In medieval England simnel cakes (special rich fruitcakes) were consumed on this day. In the Anglican churches it is sometimes called Mothering Sunday, with reference to a verse in Galatians (4:27).