While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks

1While shepherds watched their flocks by night,
All seated on the ground,
The angel of the Lord came down,
And glory shone around.

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.

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

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

5Thus spake the seraph; and forthwith Appeared a shining throng Of angels praising God on high,
Who thus addressed their song:

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!"