From December 17 to December 23, the Octave before Christmas, the Catholic Church prays the “O Antiphons.” Each day a different antiphon is prayed. They are recited during Vespers of the Liturgy of the Hours. They are prayed as the Gospel Acclamation at Mass. At our Maranatha Christmas Novena each evening a different Antiphon is prayed. What is familiar to most people is the use of the O Antiphons in the song "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.”

The exact origin of the O Antiphons is not known. Slight reference was made to them in the early 6th century. By the 8th century they were used in liturgical celebrations in Rome.

These O Antiphons proclaim the coming of Christ. Each antiphon uses a different biblical name for Jesus as the Messiah to help us understand who Jesus is. Also, each one refers to the prophecy of Isaiah of the coming of the Messiah. Note their repeated us of the word “come” that symbolizes the longing of all for the Messiah.  

• O Wisdom of our God Most High, guiding creation with power and love: come to teach us the path of knowledge!
• O Lord of might, giver of the Law to Moses on Sinai: come to rescue us with your mighty power!
• O Root of Jesse’s stem, sign of God’s love for all his people: come to save us without delay!
• O Key of David, opening the gates of God’s eternal Kingdom: come and free the prisoners of darkness!
• 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.
• O King of Nations, and keystone of the Church: come and save man, whom you formed from the dust!
• O Emmanuel, our King and Giver of Law: come to save us, Lord our God!