The 'O' Antiphons
The ‘O’ Antiphons
Beginning on the 17 December of each Advent season, and for the next seven days, a special antiphon known as an O Antiphon is read before the Magnificat during Evening Prayer. Sometimes called the Greater Antiphons, or the O’s of Advent (because they begin with that exclamation), the O Antiphons differ from the daily antiphons because they herald the coming birth of Christ. Originally written in Latin around the seventh or eighth centuries, these special antiphons express humanity’s desire and longing for God, a longing which has existed throughout the history of God’s people, from the beginning of time through Abraham, Moses and David, and fulfilled on the night when Emmanuel (God with us) was born. Each prayer begins with one of the seven titles attributed to Jesus’ Old Testament title for the Messiah.
More News
Holy Redeemer collection for Trussell Trust
During January instant coffee and instant mash were collected at Holy Redeemer. These, plus a few sweet items are for the Trussell Trust...Read more
Holy Redeemer notices for 2 February
Thank you for contributions to our Food Bank collection. All items are on display at the front of the church tonight. In March...Read more
CANDLEMAS (Presentation of Our Lord) 2 February
Candlemas commemorates the ritual presentation of the baby Jesus to God in the Temple at Jerusalem. The Gospel of Luke says that Jesus...Read more