Throughout the season of Advent we often sing the familiar hymn, “O Come, O Come Emmanuel.” It’s a very haunting & very familiar melody, but how many of us are aware of where the words of the song find their origins? The words of the hymn arise from what are known as the “O Antiphons.” Though their exact origin is unknown, the “O Antiphons” have been sung by the Church since at least the 8th century. They are traditionally used at Evening Prayer in the Liturgy of the Hours. Each verse of “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” begins with one of these “O Antiphons.” Here they are, maybe we might use them to guide our prayer this week as we prepare next weekend to celebrate the great Solemnity of Christmas. Have a Blessed Week!
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!