The "O Antiphons" of Advent: December 23 - O Emmanuel

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The "O Antiphons" of Advent: December 23 - O Emmanuel
Dec 23, 2025
Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston

December 23
O Emmanuel, our King and Giver of Law:
come to save us, Lord our God!

The Roman Church has been singing the "O" Antiphons since at least the eighth century. They are the antiphons that accompany the Magnificat canticle of Evening Prayer from December 17-23. 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. Their repeated use of the imperative "Come!" embodies the longing of all for the Divine Messiah.

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