The collect has been a distinctive of Anglican liturgy for over four hundred years. The number in use in the revised liturgies of the communion is enormous. They are gathered in this book, indexed by the first line and key words, and related to their sources. An introductory essay relates the history of this prayer form peculiar to the Roman Rite, and explains its nature and structure as it has appeared over the years. The comprehensive index makes these prayers accessible to all, and the thematic index makes them available for a wide variety of uses. The texts follow, grouped under the headings: Latin collects and the Sarum Missal; Anglican collects 1549-1929; collects in transition 1930-1972; and contemporary collects 1973-1989. This book should be of interest to anyone saying prayers in public. Martin Dudley is the author of Confession and Absolution and The Oil of Gladness.