O Oriens: O Dayspring: O Radiant Dawn - December 21

O Oriens: O Dayspring: O Radiant Dawn

In ancient times, at Mass, Christians faced the East, calling on Christ the Dayspring, to “shine on those who sit in darkness and death’s shadow.” Today, December 21 marks the shortest day of the year and longest night. Through night’s darkness, the Advent candles continue to burn bright and the Church calls to Our Lord, the Dayspring, the Radiant Dawn, the Morning Star to come.

We are all in need of a Savior, none are immune. We look to the Dayspring to ransom us from death and darkness. Sin seeks shelter under the cover of darkness, but we can return to the light through baptism or the sacrament of penance. Flee darkness, confess sin, and live in His light, comfort and freedom. O Dayspring come and disperse the gloomy clouds of night.

O Oriens

O Dawn of the east, brightness of the light eternal,
and Son of Justice:
Come, and enlighten them that sit in darkenss
and in the shadow of death.

This Antiphon is based on the following scripture:

Isaiah 9:1-2 “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; Upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom a light has shown. You have brought them abundant joy and great rejoicing.”

Isaiah 9: 5-6 “For a child is born to us, a son is given us; upon his shoulder dominion rests. They name him Wonder-Counselor, God-Hero, Father-Forever, Prince of Peace. His dominion is vast and forever peaceful, from David’s throne, and over his kingdom, which he confirms and sustains by judgment and justice, both now and forever.”

Malachi 4:2 “But for you who fear my name, there will arise the sun of justice with its healing rays; And you will gambol [frolic] like calves out of the stall.”

Luke 1:78-79 “because of the tender mercy of our God by which the daybreak from on high will visit us to shine on those who sit in darkness and death’s shadow, to guide our feet into the path of peace.”

Revelation 22:16 “I, Jesus, sent my angel to give you this testimony for the churches. I am the root and offspring of David, the bright morning star.”

O Come O Come Emmanuel

Latin

Veni, veni O Oriens, Solare nos

adveniens, Noctis depelle nebulas,

Dirasque mortis tenebras.

English

O come, Thou Dayspring from on high,

And cheer us by thy drawing nigh;

Disperse the gloomy clouds of night

And death’s dark shadow put to flight.