1 While shepherds watched their flocks by night
all seated on the ground,
the angel of the Lord came down
and glory shone around.

2 'Fear not,'said he - for mighty dread
had seized their troubled mind —
'Good news of greatest joy I bring
to you and all mankind.

3 'To you in Bethlehem this day
is born of David's line
a saviour, who is Christ the Lord.
And this shall be the sign:

4 'The heavenly babe you there shall find
to human view displayed,
in simple clothing tightly wrapped
and in a manger laid.'

5 Thus spoke the seraph, and forthwith
appeared a shining throng
of angels praising God, who thus
addressed their joyful song:

6 'All glory be to God on high,
and to the earth be peace!
To those on whom his favour rests
goodwill shall never cease.'