The collect is not only a form of prayer, it is a beautiful poetic form which gives a simple, yet effective, structured voice to the one who prays.
Here is one of the most famous and best loved collects which was included as part of the services of Evening Prayer, (or Evensong) and Compline.
Lighten our darkness, we beseech thee, O Lord;
and by thy great mercy defend us from all perils and dangers of this night;
for the love of thy only Son, our Saviour, Jesus Christ.
Amen.
