You, Who, Do Through prayer pattern

A simple structure for composing prayers

An easy way to compose a prayer for use as an opening or concluding prayer, or ‘collect’, is to follow the

YOU-WHO-THROUGH pattern.

YOU- begin by addressing God or naming God. “Loving God”, “God of Mercy”, “God who heals”, “Father in Heaven”.

WHO- name ‘WHO’ God is for us, for example: “Giver of all good gifts”, “You are always ready to forgive”, “Our strength and hope”.

DO- we ask God to act, to ‘DO’ something: “Be with us as we gather in your name”, “Grant peace to our world”.

THROUGH- We pray to God in and THROUGH Christ, so our prayer concludes with a simple “Through Christ our Lord Amen”, or “In the name of Jesus your Son, Amen.

This pattern or structure can be used to compose a prayer for any occasion;

grace
opening prayer
closing prayer
blessing
prayers of forgiveness

You

God of new beginnings
God, ever patient and loving
God our creator
Faithful God
Ever generous God
God, source of strength
Loving God
God of abundance
Merciful God
Loving God

Who

You fill us with love and kindness
You fill our hearts with faith
You lead us in your ways
You help us to love others
You give us your word
You guide us in this time of ______
You give us your Spirit
You bless us with gifts of creation
You created us to live and love
You know us and love us

Do

Send us your Spirit to make us strong in faith and active in good works
Inspire us to care for all creation as you do
Teach us courage to believe in you
Give your Church the gifts of unity and diversity in every land and culture
Lead all people to a future of dignity and peace
Bless our country and open our eyes to those who need our care
Help us to bring peace and joy to others
May we follow the courage of Mary and say “yes” to your will
May we act fairly to all people and treat them with respect

Through

We make this prayer in Jesus’ name. Amen
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen
We make this prayer through Christ our Lord. Amen
Through Christ our Lord. Amen