Praying the Great O Antiphons

Description In the final days of Advent, the Church recites the Great O Antiphons when the Magnificat is prayed at Vespers each evening. These antiphons refer to Christ under seven great titles: Wisdom (Sapientia), Lord Most High (Adonai), Root of Jesse (Radix Jesse), Key of David (Clavis David), Dayspring (Oriens), King of Nations (Rex Gentium), and God With Us (Emmanuel). Katy Carl contemplates each of these titles, drawing on art, literature, and Sacred Scripture to show how they tell the story of Jesus Christ, the Babe of Bethlehem. These meditations will help anyone who wants to pray the O Antiphons with greater devotion and to make space in the final busy days of Advent for spiritual preparation to welcome the infant Christ at Christmas. Key Points: A guided, day-by-day journey through all seven O Antiphons from 17–23 December, with each date clearly structured in the contents Combines the Gospel Acclamation and Magnificat Antiphon for each day, helping readers pray with the Church’s liturgy even if they are unfamiliar with the Liturgy of the Hours This in-depth guide can be read in advance of the O Antiphons beginning, to better appreciate them when they arrive. Alternatively, enrich your daily prayer by reading the corresponding chapter each day while the O Antiphons are prayed with. Visually rich with sacred art that supports meditation on the texts Written for ordinary Catholics, while offering solid explanations of what antiphons are and how to pray with them Draws upon a variety of themes, including art, literature, and Sacred Scripture Provides simple suggestions for using the O Antiphons in personal or family prayer, especially helpful for busy Advent schedules Each reflection lasts 4-10 pages, highlighting the depth and beauty of the O Antiphons A contemplative, literary style that invites slow, reverent reflection on the Incarnation and salvation history