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--
"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
A Savior, who is Christ the Lord;
And this shall be the sign--

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

5 Thus spake 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;
Good-will henceforth from heaven to men
Begin and never cease."