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 musi