Sherburne

While shepherds watch'd 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
Had seized their troubled mind)
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
A Saviour, who is Christ the Lord
And this shall be the sign

The heav'nly 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 heavenly throng
Of angels praising God, and thus
Addressed their joyful song:

All glory be to God on high
And to the earth be peace;
Good-will henceforth from heav'n to men
Begin and never cease!