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
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 and all mankind.

To you, in David's town, this day
Is born of David's line
A Savior, who is Christ the Lord
And this shall be the sign
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
And in a manger laid.

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

All glory be to God on high
And to the Earth be peace
Good will henceforth from heaven to men
Begin and never cease
Begin and never cease!