O Emmanuel [Latin] - The Great O Antiphons

23 December - O Emmanuel.

The Great O Antiphons are a series of short verses which count down the days to Christmas Eve. Sung at the beginning and end of the Magnificat during Evensong, each antiphon begins with a different name for Jesus. They draw on Scripture to help us learn about who Jesus will be, as foretold by the prophets.

At Westminster Abbey, these antiphons are sung at Evensong from the 17th to 23rd of December. This year, we have recorded them in the Abbey’s beautiful Chapter House and will release a new music video on the appointed day for each antiphon.

Text:
O Emmanuel,
Rex et Legifer foster,
exspectatio gentium, et salvator earum;
veni ad salvandum nos, Domine Deus noster.

Translation:
O Emmanuel,
our king and lawgiver
the desire of all nations and their salvation
come and save us, O Lord our God.

Learn more about the O Antiphons at Westminster Abbey: www.westminster-abbey.org/worship-music/services-times/advent-and-christmas/the-great-o-antiphons/
Find out more about Advent & Christmas at the Abbey: www.westminster-abbey.org/worship-music/services-times/advent-and-christmas/