A doxology is a short hymn or expression of praise to God. It is often used at the end of a psalm or prayer. The word comes from the Greek doxa, meaning glory, and logos, meaning word. A doxology gives glory to God. It is a burst of praise. It concludes a section of worship.

The most famous doxology is the Gloria Patri. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. It is sung or recited in many churches. It is short. It is memorable. It summarizes the faith. Other doxologies include the Gloria in Excelsis Deo and the doxology at the end of the Lord's Prayer. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.

Doxology in worship

• Gloria Patri: Glory be to the Father.
• Gloria in Excelsis Deo: Glory to God in the highest.
• Lord's Prayer doxology: For thine is the kingdom.
• Jude 24-25: to the only God our Savior be glory.
• Revelation 5:13: blessing and honor and glory and power.

Doxologies are important in worship. They mark transitions. They conclude prayers. They unite the congregation. Everyone knows the words. Everyone sings together. The doxology is a shared act of praise. It is not about the individual. It is about God. It lifts the heart. It focuses the mind. It reminds the worshiper of the purpose of worship. It is a small thing. A few lines. A simple tune. But it carries weight. It has been sung for centuries. It will be sung for centuries more. The doxology is the church's heartbeat. It is praise in its purest form.