The Call of Obligation

The Wrights have blessed us

With shelter

The Articulation beckons

We answer

The Stairs are steep and many

We climb

History

The above prayer is known among all Structuralists and a physical copy is on their person at all times. It is known as the “Call of Obligation” or just “The Call” colloquially. During the birth of the Structuralist religion, the prayer was among the first recorded by the first Framers. It was initially used as a way for Structuralists to identify themselves to each other, as the religion was outlawed by Lord Supremacy Fulcon Honoroe. To gain entry into a then clandestine sermon or prayer meeting, one would need to “oblige” the doorman with recitation of “the Call”. This is where the where the current idiomatic use of the phrase “Oblige me” comes from – to speak a secret truth. With the Structuralist Church’s rise to power, this practice is symbolically observed as every church service begins with the congregation reciting “The Call” in unison.

Rite of Obligation

Once a child begins to show signs of development towards their physical and mental maturity, the church takes a more active role in their life. It is during this time Baluster will meet with the child and their family for a series of conversations. During this time it is a Baluster's role to provide the youth with a more complex understanding of The Articulation and their role in society, helping them bridge the gap between childhood and adolescence.
When the Baluster decides the child is ready, a ceremony will be held in front of the community. It is here that the child sees clearly their place among their elders, and understands how important it is that they reciprocate that embrace with faith and loyalty.
The Call of Obligation is then written by the Baluster on a piece of blessed parchment made by the church specifically for this occasion. The child’s parents provide a locket to house the parchment so that it can be kept on their person- whether around their neck or in their pocket. It is common for the locket to have sentimental value to the family. Perhaps it belonged to an elder who passed away, or it is inscribed with words of love and inspiration. Whether it be modest or ornate, nickel plated or the finest gold, the locket and the prayer inside signifies a psychological shift in a person’s life, and is of great spiritual importance.

Type

Text, Religious

Medium

Paper