While Shepherd Watched

While Shep/herds 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 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 a 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,
Goodwill henceforth from heaven to all, Begin and never cease!"