While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks

While shepherds watched their flocks by night,

all seated on the ground,

the angel 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 Saviour, who is Christ the Lord.

And this shall be the sign:

“The heavenly babe you there shall find

to human view displayed,

all meanly wrapped in swathing bands

and in a manger laid.”

Thus spoke 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 to the earth be peace;

goodwill henceforth from highest heaven

begin and never cease!”