1 Whilst Shepherds kept their flocks by night,
An Angel cloath'd with pow'r and light,
Did to the Shepherds there appear
Which fill'd their minds with dread & fear.

2 But to their comforts thus he said,
Dear Shepherds be ye not affraid:
I have a message unto you,
Exceeding joyful, great and true.

3 This day is born in David's town,
The mighty prince of great renown;
The Lord and Saviour of mankind
In Bethlehem ye shall him find.

4 There he is in a manger laid,
And there to human view display'd;
He, who hath all at his commands,
Is there a babe in swathing bands.

5 There to an ang'lic host appear'd,
And thus their songs of praise were hear'd:
All glory be to God on high!
Who brings to us salvation nigh.

6 O happy news sent down from heav'n!
Since peace to man on earth is giv'n;
Good will from God to man shall be,
And blessings to eternity.