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
"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
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 and thus
Addressed their joyful song:
"All glory be to God on high
And on the earth be peace
Goodwill henceforth from heaven to men
Begin and never cease."