While shepherds watched their flocks by night

1While 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.

2"Fear not," said he,—for mighty dread
Had seized their troubled mind,—
"Glad tidings of great joy I bring
To you and all mankind.

3"To you, in David's town this day
Is born, of David's line,
The Saviour, who is Christ the Lord;
And this shall be the sign:

4"The heavenly babe you there shall find
To human view displayed,
All humbly wrapped in swathing-bands,
And in a manger laid."

5Thus spake the seraph; and forthwith
Appeared a shining throng
Of angels, praising God on high,
Who thus addressed their song:

6"All glory be to God on high,
And on the earth be peace,
Good-will henceforth from heaven to men,
Begin and never cease."