While Shepherds Watched

While shepherds watched their flocks by night

All seated on the ground

The angels of the Lord came down

And glory shone around

"Fear not," said he, for mighty dread

Had seized their troubled mind

"Glad tidings of great joy, I bring

To you and all mankind"

To you, in David's town this day

Is born of David's line

A Savior who is Christ the Lord

And this shall be the sign

The heavenly Babe, you there shall find

The human view displayed

All meanly wrapped in swathing bands

And in a manger laid

Thus spake the seraph, and forthwith

Appeared a shining throng

Of angels praising God who thus

Addressed their joyful song

All glory be to God on high

And on the Earth be peace

Goodwill henceforth from heaven to men

Begin and never cease