While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night

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,
A Saviour, 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 wrapt in swathing bands,
And in a manger laid.”

Verse 5

Thus spake the seraph, and forthwith
Appeared a shining throng
Of angels praising God, and thus
Addressed their joyful 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.”