One time-honored Advent tradition is the praying of the O Antiphons. The O Antiphons use titles of the Messiah and verses from the Old Testament to express our longing for His coming. The traditional Advent hymn “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” is a poetic translation of these antiphons.
On December 17-23, the special antiphons are prayed during Evening Prayer (Vespers), and they are also used at Mass as the Alleluia verse.
We are happy to provide these beloved antiphons, in both Latin and English, for you.
What Are the O Antiphons?
Each of the seven antiphons begins with “O” and addresses the coming Messiah by a biblical title: Wisdom, Lord, Root of Jesse, Key of David, Dayspring, King of the Nations, and Emmanuel. Together they form a concentrated preparation for Christmas, moving from longing and promise toward the joyful nearness of Christ.
The first letters of the Latin titles, read in reverse order, form the phrase Ero cras, meaning “Tomorrow, I will come.” This ancient arrangement gives the final days of Advent a beautiful sense of expectation.
How to Pray the O Antiphons at Home
From December 17 through December 23, pray the antiphon assigned to that day before or after an evening meal, during family prayer, or as part of personal prayer. Read the title slowly, consider what it reveals about Christ, and bring before him the needs of the Church, your family, and the world.
Our O Antiphons prayer page includes the complete sequence in Latin and English so it can be followed throughout the final week of Advent.