The O Antiphons

The O Antiphons were originally used by the church during the daily vesper services in the last seven days of Advent.  An antiphon is a short chorus or refrain the text of which comes from the Psalter.  These seven antiphons have come to be used in Advent services, particularly worship times other than the primary worship gatherings in Advent.  They are frequently part of Hanging of the Greens, Lessons and Carols and Candlelight services.  Each of the antiphons employs a different title for Christ.  The hymn/carol O Come, O Come Emmanuel is a paraphrase of the Antiphons.

Modern churches of many denominations employ the O Antiphons in a variety of ways in their worship services.  We are using them in our Calls to Worship.  This week’s O Antiphon is:

                                                                                                                                                          

O EMMANUEL, our King and Lawgiver, the Expected of the nations and their Savior:

Come and save us, O Lord our God.

      Rejoice!  Rejoice!  Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.