"O" Antiphons
The seven "O Antiphons" are prayers that come from the Breviary's Vespers during the Octave before Christmas Eve, a time which is called the "Golden Nights."
Each Antiphon begins with "O" and addresses Jesus with a unique title which comes from the prophecies of Isaias (Isaiah) and Micheas (Micah), and whose initial letters, when read backwards, form an acrostic for the Latin "Ero Cras" which means "Tomorrow I come." Those titles for Christ are:
Sapientia
Adonai
Radix Jesse
Clavis David
Oriens
Rex Gentium
Emmanuel
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
Advent Ember Days: December 18, 20, 21, 2024
In the 1969 revision of the liturgical calendar, the Ember Days are no longer formally observed. But many Catholics still observe them in their homes and parishes. It’s a fruitful practice and a great way to stay in tune with the liturgical year.
How do we celebrate the Ember Days?
Thanksgiving
On the Ember Days, we give thanks for the fruit of the Earth. Even though we don’t live in an agrarian society, it’s good for us to give thanks for the food we have such easy access to. We may not grow it ourselves, but we’re fed because of the work of others’ hands.
Fasting and abstinence
Fasting on the Ember Days reminds us to honor nature’s gifts by using them in moderation. At one time, fasting on the Ember Days was obligatory. Now, according to the Code of Canon Law, fasting and abstinence on the Ember Days is commended but not required.
PRAYERS
