Dictionary

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Collect

A collect is a short prayer used in liturgy, for example towards the beginning of the Eucharist. It often reflects the themes of the particular season of the Church’s year. Its name comes from the idea that it ‘collects’ together the lessons of the service readings.

Holy Communion

At Holy Communion blessed bread and wine is shared, by which we receive the body and blood of Jesus Christ. The congregation gives thanks for Jesus’ life, his death and resurrection and his continuing presence. See also Eucharist.

Lent

Lent is the six-week period leading up to Easter. It is a particular time to confess sin and to seek personal and collective renewal (a ‘springtime of the spirit’). Lent has a special focus on Jesus’s journey to the cross and prepares the Church to celebrate his resurrection.

Prayer

Prayer sustains our human relationship with God and may involve words (formal or informal) or be silent. Prayer can involve adoration (‘I love you’), confession (‘sorry’), thanksgiving and supplication (‘please’).

Home Publications Prayers Prayers: The First Sunday of Lent

Prayers: The First Sunday of Lent

Tender Lord,
When our thoughts hold us in bondage and life feels like a desert,
awaken us to the truth of Your unwavering presence.
Help us to drink deeply from Christ’s compassion and wisdom,
letting go of thoughts that hurt us.
We pray for those held hostage by hostile thoughts of shame or pain,
that they may find healing and freedom.
In choosing empathy, we choose Your freedom, embracing words that heal.
As we release our need for control,
may we foster understanding and connection.
Together, let us create a space where love flows freely,
transforming our hearts and community. Amen.

God of love,
As we travel to Jerusalem,
keep our eyes fixed on Jesus.
Help us to reject the temptations that come our way,
so that we grow closer to you each day.
This we ask in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

God of love,
As we travel to Jerusalem,
keep our eyes fixed on Jesus.
Help us to push away the temptations that come our way,
so that we grow more like Jesus each day.
This we ask in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Collect 42

Almighty God,
whose Son Jesus Christ fasted forty days in the wilderness,
and was tempted as we are, yet without sin:
give us grace to discipline ourselves
in obedience to your Spirit;
and, as you know our weakness,
so may we know your power to save;
through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.

The Revised New Calendar and The Contemporary Collects