While Shepherds Watched

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 " he said

For mighty dread

Had seized their troubled minds

"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

The Savior who is Christ the Lord

And this shall be the sign

"The heavenly Babe

You there shall find

To human view displayed

And 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 to the earth be peace;

Goodwill henceforth

From heaven to men

Begin and never cease