Antiphona 5

Psalm 44:15-16 (Vulgate: 44:14-15) describes the royal bride's entourage. 'Adducentur Regi virgines post eam' (virgins shall be brought to the King after her) presents the virgin martyr as leading a procession - she enters first, and others follow in her train. 'Proximae eius' (those near to her/her companions) are the other consecrated virgins inspired by her example. At Lauds, as the Church gathers for morning praise, this antiphon presents the virgin martyr as processional leader, bringing in her wake countless souls inspired by her witness.