As we approach the last week of Advent, I want to share with you something from the Liturgy of the Hours of the Church that is very meaningful in these days approaching Christmas. The “O Antiphons” are short scripture verses that are recited or sung before and after the Gospel, The Magnificat, during Evening Prayer in the Octave before Christmas (one each day from December 17 through December 23). They are ancient liturgical antiphons (much like a refrain) and have been part of our liturgical tradition since at least the eighth century. Each of the Antiphons highlights a title for the Messiah. They also refer to the prophecy of Isaiah of the coming of the Messiah.
The graphic below shows us the antiphons. If we were to use the first letter of the Latin words for the antiphons (Emmanuel, Rex, Oriens, Clavis, Radix, Adonai, Sapientia, ERO CRAS is formed, meaning, Tomorrow, I will come.
Therefore, the Lord Jesus whom we have addressed in these seven Messianic titles, now speaks to us by saying, “Tomorrow, I will come.” So, the O Antiphons not only bring intensity to our Advent preparation, but they bring it to a joyful conclusion. Come, oh come, Emmanuel!!
Please join us for our Christmas Concert this Friday at 7:00 PM and for Adoration this Sunday at 7:10 PM. Come be renewed as we come together for prayer, sacred music and time for quiet reflection.
God Bless you all during this last week of Advent,
Msgr. Tom
