Church of St. Mary at Clinton Heights

O Oriens: “O Radiant Dawn, splendor of eternal light, sun of justice:

come, shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death.”

As we celebrate the Fourth Sunday of Advent, a simple reflection:

“The liturgy of Advent…helps us to understand the fullness

of the value and meaning of the mystery of Christmas.

It is not just about commemorating the historical event,

which occurred some 2,000 years ago in a little village of Judea.

Instead, we must understand that our whole life should be an ‘advent’,

in vigilant expectation of the Christ’s final coming.”

– Pope St. John Paul II

O Clavis David: “O Key of David,

O royal Power of Israel controlling at your will the gate of Heaven:

Come, break down the prison walls of death for those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death;

and lead your captive people into freedom.”

O Radix Jesse: “O Flower of Jesse’s stem,

you have been raised up as a sign for all peoples;

kings stand silent in your presence;

the nations bow down in worship before you.

Come, let nothing keep you from coming to our aid.”

O Adonai: “O sacred Lord of ancient Israel,

who showed yourself to Moses in the burning bush,

who gave him the holy law on Sinai mountain:

come, stretch out your mighty hand to set us free.”