The “O Antiphon” Countdown to Christmas

“O What?” Only 2 more days before Christmas. In the spirit of my family’s tradition of last-minute preparations I wanted to pass along a most-encouraging series of blog articles posted by TFC’s Michael Luyckx explaining the “O Antiphons” – a series of prayers spread across the final 7 days of advent to Christmas day. Click below for the past entries. Follow Michael’s blog for the remaining 3.

• Brief History of the O Antiphons
• Dec 17th: Oh Sapientia
• Dec 18th: Oh Adonai
• Dec 19th: O Radix
• Dec 20th: O Clavix
• Dec 21st: O Oriens
• Dec 22nd: O Rex Gentium

Yes – today is the 23rd. Late, I know. But this stuff is well done. Michael explains the history of the “O Antiphons,” offers a latin translation, and provides some nice commentary on the biblical-theological background for each day’s theme and phrases. Not only will you see the profound connection between Christ’s first coming at Christmas and His return celebrated in Advent highlighted, you will appreciate the carol, “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” with a new depth of understanding.

Thanks Michael (and Abraham Joseph) for shining the Advent candles brightly.

Keith