The ‘O’ Antiphons are Catholic prayers dating back to at least the seventh century. They are used during evening vespers prayer time, during the season of Advent from Dec. 17 to 23, ending the night before Christmas Eve. We hope your family can incorporate this ancient tradition into your prayer life as you lift up expectant hope.
Each of the seven ‘O’ Antiphons ends with a statement beginning with “come” in anticipation of Jesus Christ, our Messiah. In fact, the popular Christmas hymn “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” is based on the Dec. 23 ‘O’ Antiphon. Filled with rich theology, each antiphon focuses on a different title revealed about Christ through the prophet Isaiah.
Dec. 17
Sapientia
Wisdom
Isaiah 11:2-3; Isaiah 28:29
Dec. 18
Adonai
Lord
Isaiah 11:4-5; Isaiah 33:22
Dec. 19
Radix Jesse
Root of Jesse
Isaiah 1:1; Isaiah 11:10
Dec. 20
Clavis
Key of David
Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 22:22
Dec. 21
Oriens
Radiant Dawn
Isaiah 9:1
Dec. 22
Rex Gentium
King of the Nations
Isaiah 2:4; Isaiah 9:5
Dec. 23
Emmanuel
God With Us
Isaiah 7:14
If placed in reverse order, the first letter of each name of Christ spells out the Latin phrase “Ero cras,” which means “Tomorrow, I will come.” With each antiphon, we are praying for the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ, on Christmas Day.
Dec. 17
O Wisdom of our God Most High, guiding creation with power and love: come to teach us the path of knowledge!
Dec. 18
O Leader of the House of Israel, giver of the Law to Moses on Sinai: come to rescue us with your mighty power!
Dec. 19
O Root of Jesse’s stem, sign of God’s love for all his people: come to save us without delay!
Dec. 20
O Key of David, opening the gates of God’s eternal Kingdom: come and free the prisoners of darkness!
Dec. 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.
Dec. 22
O King of all nations and keystone of the Church: come and save man, whom you formed from the dust!
Dec. 23
O Emmanuel, our King and Giver of Law: come to save us, Lord our God!
This Advent, join us in praying these antiphons at evening vespers and with your family at home. As we reflect on the miracle of the incarnation and wait for him to come again, we will be renewed in our desire to live on mission and share his love with others. Come, Lord Jesus!
For additional family-friendly Advent prayers and weekly activities, visit our Advent Activity Guide for Children and Families.
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