diff --git a/code/game/gamemodes/clock_cult/clock_helpers/scripture_checks.dm b/code/game/gamemodes/clock_cult/clock_helpers/scripture_checks.dm
index bfa27cefdb..e5497d7c9f 100644
--- a/code/game/gamemodes/clock_cult/clock_helpers/scripture_checks.dm
+++ b/code/game/gamemodes/clock_cult/clock_helpers/scripture_checks.dm
@@ -11,9 +11,9 @@
 
 //reports to servants when scripture is locked or unlocked
 /proc/scripture_unlock_alert(list/previous_states)
+	. = scripture_unlock_check()
 	if(!GLOB.servants_active)
 		return
-	. = scripture_unlock_check()
 	for(var/i in .)
 		if(.[i] != previous_states[i])
 			update_slab_info()