First Line: 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.

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

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

5 Thus spake the seraph-- and forth- [with
Appeared a shining throng
Of angels, praising God, who thus
Addressed their joyful song

6 All glory be to God on high !
And to the earth be peace !
Goodwill henceforth from heaven to men
Begin,and never cease !