While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks

Verse 1

While shepherds watched their flocks by night, All seated on the ground, The angel of the Lord came down, And glory shone around.

Verse 2

"Fear not!" said he for mighty dread Had seized their troubled mind; "Glad tidings of great joy I bring, To you and all mankind.

Verse 3

"To you, in David's town this day, Is born of David's line, The Savior who is Christ the Lord; And this shall be the sign:

Verse 4

"The heavenly Babe you there shall find To human view displayed, All meanly wrapped in swathing bands, And in a manger laid."

Verse 5

Thus spake the seraph; and forthwith Appeared a shining throng Of angels praising God on high, Who thus addressed their song:

Verse 6

"All glory be to God on high, And to the earth be peace; Good will henceforth from heaven to men, Begin and never cease!"