Pray the O Antiphons

Listen and pray with Bishop Robert Reed as he sings the seven O Antiphons. Since the 8th century, the Roman Catholic Church has been singing the O Antiphons during Evening prayer from December 17-23. Each Antiphon begins with “O,” and a name for Jesus like “Wisdom,” “Leader of the House of Israel,” and “King of All Nations,” followed by a petition for him to “come!” The antiphons use imagery from the Old Testament and capture the ancient longing for the Divine Messiah. Join us in this beautiful Advent prayer!

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!