Inside Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Included, the nomenclature adopted by a particular group of males who bear the membership consumption course of collectively is a major aspect of their bond. These designations, typically alliterative or thematically linked, function a singular identifier for that specific cohort throughout the chapter’s historical past. As an illustration, a gaggle would possibly choose names like “The Seven Stars” or “The Invincible Iron Males,” reflecting a shared aspiration or attribute.
The choice and utilization of those identifiers contribute to the constructing of brotherhood and esprit de corps among the many members of the road. In addition they present a hyperlink to the chapter’s historical past and traditions. This follow is crucial for fostering a way of belonging and solidifying the connection between the newly initiated members and the prevailing fraternity construction. These names typically maintain particular which means, reflecting the group’s journey in the course of the consumption course of and symbolizing their dedication to the fraternity’s beliefs. The particular selections are sometimes stored non-public, including to the mystique and exclusivity of the bond.
Due to this fact, understanding the nuances of those group identifiers offers a glimpse into the inner dynamics and traditions of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Included. The next sections will delve into the origin and significance of fraternal naming conventions, the method of choice, and their position in preserving the group’s legacy.
1. Brotherhood Identification
The bond cast in the course of the Alpha Phi Alpha membership consumption course of transcends mere affiliation. It evolves into a definite Brotherhood Identification, deeply intertwined with the cohort’s chosen identifier. This identify, earned by way of shared challenges and triumphs, turns into a permanent emblem of their collective expertise and their place throughout the fraternity’s lineage.
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The Crucible of Shared Expertise
The trail to turning into an Alpha isn’t solitary. Potential members navigate a rigorous course of, demanding mental prowess, unwavering dedication, and a capability for selfless service. The road identify chosen turns into synonymous with this shared crucible. If a line calls themselves “The Ironclad,” it subtly acknowledges the resilience and fortitude they displayed in the course of the membership consumption. This shared narrative cements their bond, making a camaraderie that defies time and distance.
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Embodiment of Aspirations
Line names should not arbitrarily assigned. They typically mirror the group’s aspirations, values, or a defining attribute they want to embody as Alpha males. A line dubbing themselves “The Vanguard” suggests a dedication to pioneering new paths and pushing the boundaries of what’s doable. The identify serves as a continuing reminder of their self-imposed mandate, shaping their actions and choices lengthy after initiation.
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A Chapter’s Dwelling Tapestry
Every line identify provides a singular thread to the chapter’s wealthy historical past. It distinguishes one cohort from one other, making a residing tapestry of brotherhood. Years later, alumni could recall particular traces and their contributions, additional solidifying the significance of this identifier. The identify is a badge of honor, a mark of distinction that units them aside throughout the bigger fraternal context.
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The Silent Language of Lineage
The custom of line names fosters a silent language of lineage inside Alpha Phi Alpha. It connects generations of brothers by way of shared values and experiences. An older member, upon studying a youthful brother’s line identify, would possibly discover frequent floor and a way of kinship, regardless of the years separating their initiations. This delicate type of recognition reinforces the enduring power and continuity of the fraternity.
The importance of a line identify extends far past its literal which means. It is a image of shared expertise, collective aspiration, and lasting brotherhood. It encapsulates the distinctive journey undertaken by a gaggle of males striving to uphold the beliefs of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Included, and serves as a continuing reminder of the obligations and privileges that include sporting the black and gold.
2. Shared Expertise
The crucible of shared expertise forges the very essence of fraternal id inside Alpha Phi Alpha, crystallizing within the chosen line identify. It isn’t merely a label, however an emblem etched by frequent trials, mental sparring, and the demanding pursuit of excellence. Contemplate the hypothetical line, “The Unyielding Pillars.” Their moniker is not plucked from skinny air; it is a testomony to the collective power they found inside themselves, a power revealed by way of late-night research periods, neighborhood service initiatives undertaken in unity, and the unwavering help they provided one another when particular person doubts threatened to fracture their resolve. The identify is trigger and the impact is enduring brotherhood.
The significance of this shared expertise can’t be overstated. With out it, the identifier stays hole, devoid of the emotional and historic weight it is supposed to hold. Think about one other line, “The Phoenix Rising.” Their identify could have stemmed from overcoming a particular problem throughout their consumption interval maybe a setback in a neighborhood initiative, a second of inner battle, or a time after they questioned their potential to satisfy the fraternity’s excessive requirements. Their shared battle, the collective determination to rise above adversity, is embedded inside that identify, serving as a everlasting reminder of their resilience. Years later, recounting the story of their “Phoenix” second permits them to relive their shared expertise, reinforcing their bond and reminding them of their capability to beat future obstacles.
Finally, the road identify acts as a potent image, condensing months of intense interplay, studying, and progress right into a single, memorable phrase. It hyperlinks the boys collectively in a shared narrative that they’ll carry for the remainder of their lives. It additionally hyperlinks the fraternity to its broader beliefs. With out this cornerstone of shared expertise, line names would merely be empty phrases, missing the facility to encourage, unite, and commemorate a really transformative interval within the lives of those Alpha males. Understanding this intimate relationship is subsequently basic to appreciating the depth and complexity of Alpha Phi Alpha’s fraternal traditions.
3. Chapter Historical past
Inside the hallowed halls of Alpha Phi Alpha chapters, every cohort’s chosen identifier serves as greater than a mere label; it turns into a residing inscription within the annals of the chapter’s historical past. These names, whispered by way of generations, should not randomly assigned. They’re fastidiously chosen to mirror the character, aspirations, and defining moments of that specific line, turning into inextricably linked to the chapter’s ongoing narrative. Contemplate the case of Beta Chapter, established in 1907. Many years later, brothers nonetheless converse of “The Architects,” a line initiated within the Fifties identified for designing and developing a neighborhood heart that continues to serve the native inhabitants. Their identifier grew to become synonymous with a tangible contribution, etching their legacy into the chapter’s very basis.
The story of “The Bridge Builders” from Gamma Lambda chapter offers one other poignant instance. Initiated throughout a interval of serious racial rigidity, this line devoted itself to fostering dialogue and understanding between completely different communities. Their identifier, a direct reflection of their mission, served as a continuing reminder of their dedication to bridging divides. The chapter actively promotes neighborhood engagement which may be traced again to that important time. The chapter’s information meticulously doc their initiatives, guaranteeing that the spirit of “The Bridge Builders” continues to encourage future generations of Alpha males. With out this understanding of the chapter’s historical past, the identifier would lose its efficiency, turning into a hole echo devoid of its unique significance.
Understanding the interaction between chapter historical past and line identifiers is paramount to preserving the fraternity’s heritage. It transforms names from easy monikers into highly effective symbols of accomplishment, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the rules of Alpha Phi Alpha. As chapters chronicle their previous, these identifiers grow to be precious instruments for remembrance, schooling, and the perpetuation of the fraternity’s enduring legacy. The duty of preserving this historical past rests upon every technology of Alpha males, guaranteeing that the tales behind these names proceed to resonate throughout the hearts and minds of those that observe.
4. Symbolic Which means
The collection of a gaggle identifier isn’t an informal affair inside Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. It’s an train steeped in symbolic which means, a deliberate option to encapsulate the essence of the cohort’s journey and aspirations. The identifier turns into a symbolic anchor, grounding the group’s id in a selected set of values or a shared imaginative and prescient. Contemplate a line christening themselves “The Silent Sentinels.” The picture of a sentinel evokes vigilance, safety, and unwavering dedication. This line, by way of their identifier, subtly communicates their dedication to upholding the fraternity’s rules and safeguarding its legacy. Their actions, each throughout and after their initiation, could be measured towards this symbolic normal, imbuing their fraternal expertise with a deeper sense of function. The symbolic weight of the identify acts as a compass, guiding their actions and shaping their contributions to the fraternity and the broader neighborhood.
The importance of this symbolic which means extends past mere self-identification. It resonates throughout the chapter and serves as some extent of reference for future generations. Think about “The Torch Bearers,” a line identified for his or her tutorial excellence and their dedication to mentoring youthful college students. Their identifier, a transparent reference to the pursuit of information and the transmission of knowledge, turns into synonymous with their contributions. Years later, when new members encounter the identify “The Torch Bearers” within the chapter’s historic information, they achieve perception into the values and priorities that formed that specific cohort. The identifier, subsequently, features as a symbolic bridge, connecting previous achievements with current aspirations. It reminds every technology of Alpha males of the significance of scholarship, mentorship, and the continued pursuit of enlightenment.
In essence, the symbolic which means embedded inside every line identifier transforms a easy identify into a robust illustration of collective id and function. It’s a testomony to the transformative energy of shared expertise and the enduring power of fraternal bonds. Understanding the nuances of this symbolic language unlocks a deeper appreciation for the wealthy traditions and values that outline Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, guaranteeing that the legacy of every line continues to encourage and information future generations of Alpha males. The problem lies in preserving the tales behind these names, in guaranteeing that the symbolic which means isn’t misplaced to the passage of time, however moderately stays a vibrant and enduring testomony to the enduring energy of brotherhood.
5. Non-public Custom
Inside Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, the veil of privateness surrounding line identifiers isn’t unintentional, however moderately a deliberate cultivation of exclusivity and fraternal bond. The reticence to publicly disclose these names transforms them from easy labels into guarded symbols, accessible solely to those that have undergone the shared crucible of the membership consumption course of. This confidentiality is integral to the mystique and attract of Alpha Phi Alpha’s fraternal traditions, fostering a way of belonging and shared id amongst its members.
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The Sanctity of Shared Data
Line names typically encapsulate inside jokes, shared struggles, and pivotal moments skilled in the course of the consumption course of. Public disclosure would strip these identifiers of their nuanced which means, rendering them superficial and devoid of the emotional weight they carry for the road members. Think about a line named “The Sandlot Children,” a playful reference to their humble beginnings and the preliminary skepticism they confronted from some throughout the chapter. To grasp the depth of this identifier, one will need to have witnessed their transformation from perceived underdogs to assured and succesful Alpha males. This intimate data is reserved for the initiated, solidifying their bond and distinguishing them from these exterior the fraternal circle.
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Defending the Integrity of the Course of
The secrecy surrounding line identifiers additionally serves as a safeguard towards exterior affect and potential mockery. Public data may result in appropriation or misrepresentation of those names, undermining their significance and diluting the fraternal expertise. By sustaining this non-public custom, Alpha Phi Alpha ensures that the integrity of the membership consumption course of stays uncompromised and that the chosen identifiers retain their distinctive which means for many who have earned the precise to make use of them. If the names have been public, it additionally opens up the opportunity of future pledges making an attempt to recreation the naming system.
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Strengthening Inside Bonds
The shared data of line identifiers creates a secret language throughout the fraternity, a delicate type of communication that strengthens the bonds of brotherhood. Recognizing a fellow Alpha man’s line identify is akin to sharing a secret handshake, a silent acknowledgment of shared expertise and mutual respect. This non-public custom fosters a way of unity and camaraderie, reinforcing the concept that Alpha Phi Alpha is greater than only a social group; it’s a brotherhood constructed on shared values and a typical historical past.
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Perpetuating the Mystique of Fraternalism
The aspect of thriller surrounding line identifiers contributes to the general mystique of Alpha Phi Alpha and fraternalism normally. This aura provides to the attract of the fraternity, attracting potential members who’re drawn to its wealthy traditions and the promise of belonging to one thing particular. The non-public nature of those traditions reinforces the concept that Alpha Phi Alpha is not only one other group, however a singular and unique brotherhood with a deep and significant historical past. This mystique serves to protect the worth of membership.
The cautious preservation of this non-public custom surrounding line identifiers inside Alpha Phi Alpha is subsequently not merely a matter of secrecy, however a deliberate technique to safeguard the integrity of the fraternal expertise, strengthen inner bonds, and perpetuate the mystique that has outlined the group for over a century. This nuanced strategy to privateness underscores the significance of shared data and the enduring energy of fraternal traditions in fostering a way of belonging and shared id amongst Alpha males.
6. Esprit de Corps
The time period Esprit de Corps, embodying a way of unity, enthusiasm, and customary function, resonates profoundly throughout the context of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity line identifiers. These identifiers, greater than mere monikers, grow to be rallying cries, serving as a nucleus round which Esprit de Corps crystallizes in the course of the arduous membership consumption course of. The trigger is the shared goal of initiation; the impact is a bond cast within the fires of collective endeavor, symbolized by the chosen identify. The Esprit de Corps is not merely a byproduct; it’s actively cultivated and manifested by way of the choice and subsequent embodiment of the road identify. Contemplate “The Unbreakable Chain,” a line from a Midwestern chapter. Their shared dedication to tutorial excellence, coupled with their unwavering help for each other throughout difficult examinations, fostered an unparalleled stage of mutual respect and camaraderie. This collective spirit, born of shared trials and triumphs, grew to become inextricably linked to their identifier, reinforcing their Esprit de Corps lengthy after their initiation.
The sensible significance of understanding this relationship lies in its software to chapter dynamics and management improvement. Chapters with robust Esprit de Corps, typically mirrored within the enduring pleasure of their line identifiers, are typically extra cohesive and efficient in reaching their targets. Alumni engagement can also be often tied to this deeply ingrained sense of unity. Chapters would possibly draw from the shared historical past and ethos of previous traces to inspire present members and instill a way of accountability to uphold the fraternity’s values. As an illustration, a chapter going through inner discord may revisit the historical past of a line identified for his or her battle decision expertise and their dedication to unity, drawing inspiration from their instance and reinforcing the significance of Esprit de Corps in overcoming challenges. The road identifier then turns into a tangible reminder of the chapter’s legacy of brotherhood, serving to to reignite that spirit when wanted most.
In essence, the connection between Esprit de Corps and Alpha Phi Alpha line identifiers is a symbiotic one. The identifiers function a focus for the cultivation of Esprit de Corps, whereas the Esprit de Corps itself imbues the identifiers with which means and energy. This dynamic underscores the significance of fastidiously deciding on and cherishing these identifiers, recognizing them as extra than simply names, however as enduring symbols of unity, function, and the unbreakable bonds of brotherhood inside Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. The problem lies in guaranteeing that this custom stays significant and that every line continues to domesticate the Esprit de Corps essential to uphold the fraternity’s beliefs and advance its mission.
7. Legacy Preservation
Inside Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Included, the idea of Legacy Preservation isn’t merely a passive act of remembering the previous, however a dynamic technique of actively shaping the long run by way of the lens of historical past. The nomenclature chosen by every line performs a pivotal position on this course of, appearing as a symbolic bridge connecting generations of Alpha males.
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The Oral Custom Embodied
In lots of chapters, formal archives are complemented by the oral transmission of historical past, the place tales of previous traces and their accomplishments are handed down by way of the generations. These narratives typically heart across the significance of a selected line’s chosen identify, its connection to a particular chapter initiative, or its reflection of the prevailing social local weather. As an illustration, the story of “The Silent Crusaders,” a line from the Nineteen Sixties who spearheaded voter registration drives within the face of serious resistance, serves as a robust reminder of the fraternity’s dedication to social justice. Their identifier turns into shorthand for a chapter in historical past that future members are tasked to embody.
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Line Names as Time Capsules
Every line identify serves as a time capsule, encapsulating the spirit, values, and aspirations of a selected cohort at a particular second in historical past. Inspecting these names provides perception into the evolution of the fraternity’s priorities and the altering challenges confronted by its members. A line figuring out as “The International Visionaries,” initiated within the early twenty first century, would possibly mirror the fraternity’s growing concentrate on worldwide engagement and its dedication to addressing international points. Finding out these developments provides perspective on the fraternity’s altering relationship with the world.
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The Duty of Remembrance
Legacy Preservation extends past merely recalling the names of previous traces; it necessitates understanding the tales behind these names and the teachings they convey. Every technology of Alpha males bears the accountability of actively researching and documenting the contributions of their predecessors, guaranteeing that their legacy isn’t forgotten. Chapters would possibly arrange annual occasions to honor the achievements of previous traces, conduct oral historical past interviews with alumni, or create digital archives to protect the fraternity’s historical past for future generations. The dedication is greater than ceremony: It’s a recommitment.
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Inspiring Future Generations
The tales behind Alpha Phi Alpha line names function a robust supply of inspiration for future generations of Alpha males. By studying in regards to the challenges confronted and the triumphs achieved by their predecessors, younger members achieve a deeper appreciation for the fraternity’s values and a renewed sense of function. The legacy of “The Unyielding Pillars,” a line identified for his or her tutorial excellence and unwavering dedication to neighborhood service, would possibly encourage present members to attempt for comparable achievements. The affect of instance is highly effective.
Thus, “alpha phi alpha fraternity line names” and Legacy Preservation intertwine to create an unbroken chain linking the previous, current, and way forward for the fraternity. The identifiers function symbolic touchstones, reminding every technology of Alpha males of their shared heritage and their collective accountability to uphold the fraternity’s beliefs. The longer term builds upon the shoulders of previous achievement, a practice encoded inside these fastidiously chosen names.
Continuously Requested Questions
The traditions surrounding line identifiers inside Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Included, typically elicit curiosity and infrequently, misunderstanding. What follows addresses frequent inquiries with the gravity and respect such issues deserve. Misconceptions and rumors have swirled about these names. The reality of the matter wants some readability.
Query 1: What’s the true significance of “alpha phi alpha fraternity line names” past a mere label?
Think about a ship christened earlier than its maiden voyage. The identify is not simply paint on the hull; it is a declaration of function, a prayer for secure passage, a promise of the journey forward. Equally, a line’s identify is an embodiment of their collective spirit and aspirations, a symbolic banner carried all through their fraternal lives, reflecting the shared trials and triumphs endured in the course of the membership consumption course of. The identify turns into greater than a logo: it’s a story.
Query 2: How are “alpha phi alpha fraternity line names” chosen, and what rules information the choice course of?
The choice course of is much from arbitrary. It’s a deliberative act, typically involving intense dialogue and reflection, searching for an identifier that resonates deeply with the collective id of the road. The method could also be guided by a shared ideally suited, a defining expertise in the course of the consumption course of, or a attribute they aspire to embody. The rules demand an understanding of what makes that group, and a recognition of what’s going to bind them collectively going ahead.
Query 3: Why is there such secrecy surrounding “alpha phi alpha fraternity line names,” and what function does this privateness serve?
Contemplate a household’s non-public language, shared jokes and reminiscences incomprehensible to outsiders. The secrecy surrounding line identifiers serves an analogous function, fostering a way of exclusivity and fraternal bond. Public disclosure would strip the identifiers of their nuanced which means, diluting the importance they maintain for many who have undergone the shared expertise. Solely those that have been there can really perceive.
Query 4: Are “alpha phi alpha fraternity line names” ever modified or altered after they’re initially chosen?
The permanence is akin to the engraving on a cornerstone. Altering an identifier could be akin to rewriting historical past, undermining the shared experiences and symbolic which means related to the unique identify. Whereas nicknames or variations would possibly emerge organically over time, the formally chosen identifier sometimes stays immutable. To take action would erase part of themselves.
Query 5: Is there a central registry or database of “alpha phi alpha fraternity line names” maintained by the fraternity?
Not like publicly traded corporations with centralized information, Alpha Phi Alpha chapters sometimes preserve their very own historic archives, documenting the names and achievements of previous traces. There is no such thing as a centralized repository, underscoring the significance of particular person chapters in preserving their distinctive legacies. The absence of a single place for each identify makes their preservation extra necessary.
Query 6: How do “alpha phi alpha fraternity line names” contribute to the broader narrative and legacy of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Included?
Every identifier serves as a chapter within the fraternity’s ongoing story, reflecting the evolving values, aspirations, and challenges confronted by its members over time. When pieced collectively, these line names type a wealthy tapestry, illuminating the fraternity’s enduring dedication to scholarship, management, and repair, the essence of the fraternitys function.
In essence, “alpha phi alpha fraternity line names” are extra than simply labels. They’re highly effective symbols of brotherhood, shared expertise, and enduring legacy, deeply woven into the material of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Included.
The next part will discover the moral issues related to this follow.
Preserving the Legacy
The whispers of historical past echo by way of the halls of Alpha Phi Alpha chapters. Line names, these fastidiously chosen identifiers, are greater than monikers; they’re keys unlocking tales of brotherhood, resilience, and unwavering dedication. Generations of Alpha males have etched their mark on historical past, and guaranteeing their tales are preserved requires diligence and reverence. Contemplate this not as recommendation, however as a accountability entrusted to those that now put on the black and gold.
Tip 1: Chronicle the Context: Unearth the tales. It isn’t sufficient to easily record the names. Delve into the historic context surrounding every line’s initiation. What have been the prevailing social or political problems with the time? What particular challenges did they overcome? Understanding the surroundings by which a line emerged provides depth and which means to their chosen identifier. A chapter’s archive ought to maintain greater than names and dates; it ought to include the story of every line.
Tip 2: The Energy of Oral Historical past: Have interaction with alumni. Search out the surviving members of previous traces and document their tales. Conduct oral historical past interviews, capturing their reminiscences, insights, and reflections on their fraternal expertise. These firsthand accounts are invaluable, offering a private contact that formal information typically lack. Let the elders converse, and the youthful technology hear.
Tip 3: Digitize and Protect: Create accessible archives. Transition from paper-based information to digital codecs, guaranteeing that historic paperwork, images, and different supplies are correctly preserved and simply accessible to future generations. A well-organized digital archive is a robust instrument for schooling and remembrance.
Tip 4: Annual Commemoration: Dedicate an occasion. Set up an annual occasion to honor the achievements of previous traces. This might take the type of a memorial service, a scholarship presentation, or a chapter celebration. The aim is to maintain their reminiscences alive and to encourage present members to emulate their instance.
Tip 5: Inter-Generational Mentorship: Join the previous with the current. Encourage interplay between alumni and present members, fostering mentorship alternatives that enable youthful brothers to be taught from the experiences of those that got here earlier than them. The teachings realized on their traces reside on.
Tip 6: Make it a A part of Consumption Course of: Guarantee new initiates be taught the historical past. Incorporate the historical past of line names into the schooling given to potential members, instilling in them an appreciation for the fraternity’s legacy and a way of accountability to uphold its traditions. Understanding how they got here to be part of this group binds them tighter to it.
Preserving the tales behind “alpha phi alpha fraternity line names” isn’t merely an act of historic recordkeeping; it’s an affirmation of brotherhood, a testomony to the enduring energy of shared beliefs, and a dedication to shaping a brighter future. The names and the tales related to them is the very best trainer.
The subsequent part will concentrate on the way forward for “alpha phi alpha fraternity line names.”
The Enduring Echo of Names
The previous exploration sought to light up the importance, historical past, and way forward for the identifiers inside Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Included. From their choice amidst shared challenges to their position in shaping chapter historical past and fostering a way of belonging, these designations resonate far past easy labels. They function symbolic anchors, connecting generations of Alpha males by way of a shared legacy of scholarship, management, and repair. What was offered was the center and soul of a most sacred a part of their group.
Contemplate the burden of a reputation etched in stone, a marker of lives lived and legacies cast. The story of Alpha Phi Alpha isn’t solely written in grand pronouncements or landmark achievements, but additionally within the quiet whispers of line names handed down by way of time. Due to this fact, let every brother, every chapter, and every technology acknowledge the facility of those identifiers, and decide to preserving the tales they maintain, guaranteeing that the enduring echo of those names continues to encourage and information those that will observe. Take up the solemn dedication, and act on this calling.
