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The last week of Advent, at Vespers each evening we celebrate the "O Antiphons," which Cardinal Newman used to refer to as "the heralds of Christmas." An antiphon is a short text sung before and after the psalms of the Divine Office. Each of the great antiphons of Advent begins with the exclamation “O,” followed by a title of Our Lord taken from the Old Testament, then an appeal for Him to come – Veni!
Looking backwards from the end of the series, the first letters of the invocations spell out the acrostic ERO CRAS—“tomorrow, I shall be.” The verses of the popular Advent hymn "O come, O come, Emmanuel" are inspired by the invocations of the O Antiphons.
Join us at 6:00 p.m. on December 22nd for Solemn Vespers of the Fourth Sunday of Advent, with the antiphon "O Rex gentium" ("Come, thou King of the nations") appointed for that day.
After Vespers, there will be an Advent reception featuring seasonal treats, downstairs in the church hall. Please feel free to bring a treat to share if you are able! The parish will provide wassail (punch) and some mince pies.
Convenient parking is located in two lots next to the church. Booklets will be provided containing an English translation of the Vespers service.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
79 Church Street, Bridgeport, CT, United States, Connecticut 06608
