What Are the O Antiphons? | Ancient Advent Prayers Preparing for Christmas
As Advent reaches its most sacred days, the Church begins praying the ancient O Antiphons. From December 17 to December 23, these powerful prayers are sung or recited each evening with the Magnificat in the Liturgy of the Hours. Rooted deeply in the prophecies of Isaiah, the O Antiphons reveal the many titles of the long-awaited Messiah and express Israel’s longing for salvation. Each antiphon begins with “O” — a cry of hope — and calls upon Christ by a different name: • O Sapientia (O Wisdom) • O Adonai (O Lord) • O Radix Jesse (O Root of Jesse) • O Clavis David (O Key of David) • O Oriens (O Rising Sun) • O Rex Gentium (O King of the Nations) • O Emmanuel (God With Us) These short prayers invite us to slow down, ponder, and pray more deeply as Christmas draws near. They are not meant to be rushed, but savoured — allowing each title of Christ to shape our hearts and renew our longing for His …More