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," said he, "for mighty dread

Hath 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

All 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

Good will henceforth from heaven to men

Begin and never cease

Begin and never cease."

"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"