1 While shepherds kept their flocks by night,
An angel clothed with power and light,
Did to the shepherds there appear,
Which filled their minds with dread and fear.

2 But to their comforts thus he said,
“Dear shepherds, be ye not afraid:
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 Savior of mankind
In Bethlehem ye shall Him find.

4 "There He is in a manger laid,
And there to human view displayed;
He, who hath all at His commands,
Is there a babe in swathing bands."

5 Then did angelic host appear,
And shepherds songs of praise did hear:
"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.