A collect is a short, structured prayer used in Christian liturgy—especially in traditions like Roman Catholic, Anglican, and some Lutheran churches. It’s called a “collect” because it’s meant to collect (gather together) the intentions of the people into one concise prayer.
Basic Structure of a Collect
A classic collect follows a very deliberate pattern:
- Address to God
Usually directed to God the Father
(“Almighty God…”) - Attribute or description
Something about God’s nature or action
(“who has given your only Son…”) - Petition (the main request)
What the prayer is asking for
(“grant that we may…”) - Purpose or result
Why the request is made
(“that we may live in righteousness…”) - Conclusion
Typically through
(“through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.”)
Example
Almighty God,
who hast given thine only Son to be unto us both a sacrifice for sin, and also an example of godly life:
Give us grace that we may always most thankfully receive that his inestimable benefit,
and also daily endeavor ourselves to follow the blessed steps of his most holy life;
through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
You can see all the parts clearly: address → description → request → purpose → conclusion.
The Use of Collects
Collects are used:
- At the beginning of services (to “gather” the prayers of the people)
- In the Daily Office
- For specific Sundays, feast days, or themes (e.g., peace, grace, guidance)
In the Roman Catholic and Anglican practice, each day or week often has its own appointed collect. Collects are valued because they:
- Are brief but theologically rich
- Express shared, communal prayer
- Teach doctrine through repetition
- Provide a model for writing prayers
Accessed April 18, 2026
David Green 