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 

had seized their troubled mind.

Glad tidings of great joy I bring 

to all of 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 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 on high,

who thus addressed their song:

All glory be to God on high,

and to the earth be peace;

good will henceforth from heaven to earth

begin and never cease!

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