With Advent almost upon us it’s time to take another look at the most often used (and perhaps overdone) hymn, O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, based on the O Antiphons.

These O Antiphons were developed early in the Church’s history. The writer Boethius, who died ca. 525, mentions them, and by the 8th century they were in use in Rome. 

There are seven of these antiphons, springing from the Old Testament, and address Jesus by one of His Old Testament titles. They are prayers asking Our Lord to come to us. While not readily apparent to most, the monks who first began to chant these antiphons arranged them in a very specific way to convey a specific message:

Sapientia (Wisdom)
Adonai (Lord)
Radix (Root)
Clavis (Key)
Oriens (Dawn)
Rex (King)
Emmanuel (God-with-us)

The first letters of each of these names, working from the last to the first, spells the EROCRAS, or “ero cras” – meaning “I will be there tomorrow.” Hence, the nature of the O Antiphons chanted the 7 days before Christmas Eve.  (This is also a good reason to perhaps save this hymn more for the end of Advent, rather than the beginning, during which the focus is more on the Second Coming than the Incarnation.)

From a performance aspect, it is always important to never let this venerable hymn drag. For an interesting rendition of this hymn, look for the setting by Andrew Carter. It is full of power and energy and brings us to our Lord’s nativity with awe and wonder.

Based on an article by Rev. James DeViese, Jr., JCL

Soli Deo Gloria

LIturgy of the Hours: Webinars and Books

As you know by now, the new translation of the Liturgy of the Hours is forthcoming over the next few years.  You can learn more about the timetable and find publishers on the ODWS website.

The FDLC is offering free webinars on the theology and history of the Liturgy of the Hours, as well as on the new translation and its implementation.

NPM becomes NACCM

The National Association of Pastoral Musicians (NPM) has changed its name to National Association of Catholic Church Musicians (NACCM).  After 50 years, the name and logo have changed, but the mission remains the same. The new name better reflects Catholic identity and honors the association’s Catholic foundation, including their role as an auxiliary of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). 

Pueri Cantores Children's Choir Festival

Sat, March 13

Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption (Covington)

The festival brings together singers in grades 4–12 from parishes, schools, and homeschool communities for combined rehearsals, fellowship, and the inspiring experience of singing as one large choir during Mass.
Participation can also strengthen parish and school music programs.