O Come Emmanuel: Reflections on the Advent Antiphons

This beautifully illustrated, full-colour daily Advent companion explores the ancient biblical names and images for the coming Messiah familiar to most people from the hymn, ‘O come, O come Emmanuel’. Well-known writers offer a total of twenty-four reflections, one for each weekday of the four weeks of Advent. The writers each offer three reflections on one of the seven antiphons: O Wisdom, O Adonai, O Root of Jesse, O Key of David, O Morning Star, O King of the Nations, O Emmanuel. Lastly, there are three reflections on the Magnificat – Mary’s Song – which the antiphons have been heard alongside since at least the eighth century. Each day includes the text of the antiphon from Common Worship, a Scripture reading exploring its biblical roots, paintings of the antiphon as a focus for meditation, a reflection, a challenge to ponder and an Advent prayer. The volume also includes an introduction explaining the rich history of the antiphons, recommendations for further resources including musical settings as well as suggestions for how to use the antiphons in local worship and study groups.