Every Advent, from December 17-23, the Church incorporates the “O Antiphons” to accompany the Magnificat recited during Evening Prayer. The tradition of introducing a specific O Antiphon to each of these 7 days dates back to the 7th or 8th century. The O Antiphons originate from various Old Testament titles for Messiah, helping us to look expectantly towards the birth of Jesus Christ. According to the USCCB, “They are a magnificent theology that uses ancient biblical imagery drawn from the messianic hopes of the Old Testament to proclaim the coming Christ as the fulfillment not only of Old Testament hopes, but present ones as well.”

Please join the Catholic Apostolate Center this Advent in reciting the O Antiphons from December 17-23. May this age-old tradition nourish your spiritual life as you continue to prepare for the coming of Christ this holiday season! 

Below are the seven O Antiphons of the Church recited during the Advent season: 

​Dec. 17, O’ Sapientia (meaning O Wisdom), from Isaiah 11:2-3. 
Dec. 18, O’ Adonai (O Lord or Ruler), 11:4-5 and 33:22. 
Dec. 19, O’ Radix (O Root of Jesse), 11:1. 
Dec. 20, O’ Clavis (O Key of David), 22:22. 
Dec. 21, O’ Oriens (O Radiant Dawn), 9:1. 
Dec. 22, O’ Rex Gentium (O King of the Nations), 2:4. 
Dec. 23, O’ Emmanuel (O God with Us), 7:14.