How to Pray: The Collect

The collect (pronounced CAW-lekt) is an ancient form of prayer that can be used publicly or privately. One of its defining features is brevity, which makes it quite suitable for unison congregational praying. That's why the Book of Common Prayer includes a collect for every Sunday, as well as for several other occasions, that can be used in corporate worship. But the collect formula is easy to learn, which also makes it a good model for private prayers. Try it out next time you are called on to pray on the spot. Here is the format, with an example taken from the BCP's assigned prayer for the Sunday closest to October 19:

Address to God ...  Almighty and everlasting God,

Attribute of God or a commemoration of God's activity ... in Christ you have revealed your glory among the nations:

Petition ... Preserve the works of your mercy,

Intended result of the request ... that your Church throughout the world may persevere with steadfast faith in the confession of your Name;

Final praise and doxology ... through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

That example uses the flowery and formal style of the BCP, but the basic pattern can help you construct even the most informal prayers. Here's another example:

Dear God, you know all things and rule over everything that you created. Send your Holy Spirit to empower and heal those who don't yet know your name, so that the very name of your Son, Jesus Christ, might rule over every nation, people group, and tribe. For your glory and honor. Amen.