On the evening of December 17 the final phase of preparation for Christmas begins with the first of the great “O Antiphons” of Advent.
There are seven prayers in the form of liturgical songs, one for each day until Christmas Eve.
December 17
O Wisdom of our God Most High,
guiding creation with power and love: come to teach us the path of knowledge!
December 18
O Leader of the House of Israel,
giver of the Law to Moses on Sinai:
come to rescue us with your mighty power!
December 19
O Root of Jesse’s stem,
sign of God’s love for all his people:
come to save us without delay!
December 20
O Key of David,
opening the gates of God’s eternal Kingdom: come and free the prisoners of darkness!
December 21
O Radiant Dawn,
splendor of eternal light, sun of justice:
come and shine on those who dwell in darkness and in the
shadow of death.
December 22
O King of all nations and keystone of the Church:
come and save man, whom you formed from the dust!
December 23
O Emmanuel, our King and Giver of Law:
come to save us, Lord our God!
—From Catholic Household Blessings & Prayers
Rooted in the Old Testament
The Roman Church has been singing the “O” Antiphons since at least the eighth century. They are the antiphons that accompany the Magnificat canticle of Evening Prayer from December 17-23. Ancient biblical imagery drawn from the messianic hopes of the Old Testament are used to proclaim the coming Christ as the fulfillment of Old Testament hopes. Their repeated use of the imperative “Come!” embodies the longing of all for the Divine Messiah.
Let’s Pray
Learn and pray the “O Antiphons.” These beautiful prayers date back to the 8th century A.D. You’ll recognize them as part of the hymn, O Come, O Come Emmanuel.
