Hey there,
Most of the topics we cover are not totally unknown, but taking a closer look provides an opportunity to learn something new here or there. To deepen our relationship with Our Lord.
Occasionally, I run across something that I managed to miss my whole cradle Catholic life.
And that’s the case with this one.
I stumbled upon the O Antiphons a few months ago and knew that I had to learn about them and incorporate them into this Advent.
O Antiphons aren’t in the Liturgical Calendar … so I guess I shouldn’t feel too bad that I’m just now hearing about them.
They are special Advent prayers for the week leading up to Christmas, beginning on December 17th. So you’ll want to read up to get ready to begin next week.
This week’s issue of Genuflect explores the O Antiphons, what they are and how they came to be; how to pray them in English, Latin, and Gregorian chant; some activities you can try with your family; and the popular Christmas hymn that they inspired.
I guess it’s true what they say … better late than never. If you’re already familiar with the O Antiphons, hopefully you’ll learn something new. And if they are new to you too, enjoy!
Keep Believing-
Katy Barrilleaux
Founding Editor, Genuflect
genuflect: sponsor
genuflect: resources
O Antiphons Explained
D.D. Emmons breaks it all down for you so you’ll know exactly what Antiphons are, when they’re prayed, where the O Antiphons got their name … and there’s even a nice reflection for each day.
What Are the O Antiphons? | Simply Catholic
O Antiphons FAQs
If you don’t have time to get into the full background of the O Antiphons, here’s the TL;DR version. It covers the top 5 questions about the O Antiphons and is a great place to start.
What Are The O Antiphons? – Learning About A Catholic Advent Tradition | Catholic Icing
When O Antiphons Are Sung
If you’re not familiar with O Antiphons, it’s probably because you have not been reciting the Liturgy of the Hours. Here’s what you need to know about when they are sung.
When do You Sing The O Antiphons | Aleteia
O Antiphons Meditations
If you’re ready to go a little deeper and get more out of the O Antiphons, you’ve come to the right place. Father Roger Landry provides a reflection for each one that includes the reference to the related prophecy from Isaiah.
Meditation Notes on the O Antiphons | Catholic Education
Latin And English
If you’d like to pray the O Antiphons, but you aren’t sure about English vs. Latin, this one’s for you. Each day includes the verse in English and Latin so you can choose your preference.
The O’Antiphons: Learn Them And Pray Them | Catholic Link
Gregorian Chant
Gregorian chant is beautiful, inspirational, and such a blessing. And it’s a wonderful way to pray the O Antiphons. Check out this YouTube video … you’ll see the first one, O Sapientia, for December 17th and in the sidebar under the “From the series” or “From OPChant” tab, you’ll find the links to the Gregorian chants for the other days. Enjoy!
O Sapientia O.P. (17 Decembris) | OP Chant (Video)
O Antiphons Activities
If you’d like to engage your family more in the O Antiphons, here are a few suggestions for some activities you can integrate into your Advent activities.
Liturgical Year : Activities : O Antiphons – December 17 – 24 | Catholic Culture
A Familiar Hymn
If the O Antiphons sound familiar it’s probably because the popular hymn O Come, O Come Emmanuel is based on them. Here’s more about the history of this favorite Christmas hymn.
History and Mystery: The O Antiphons in a Favorite Hymn | Dappled Things
O Come, O Come
Speaking of O Come, O Come Emmanuel, here’s a beautiful rendition by Lauren Daigle for your listening pleasure.
Lauren Daigle – O Come O Come Emmanuel | Laura Daigle (Video)
genuflect: bonus
Digital Inspiration
Click below to download this week’s free inspirational wallpaper for your desktop and your phone. Or download one of the previous wallpapers
Download for Desktop Download for Phone
genuflect: sharing
Please use these buttons to share this issue of Genuflect with your friends, family, and followers who may be interested. Thank you!
