While Shepherds watch'd 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 seiz'd their troubled Mind,)
"Glad Tidings of great Joy I bring
"to you and all Mankind.

"To you in David's town this Day
"is born of David's Line,
"The SAVIOUR who is CHRIST the Lord;
"And this shall be the sign:
"The heav'nly babe, you there shall find
"To human view display'd,
"All meanly wrapt in swathing bands,
"And in a manger laid."

Thus spake the seraph, and forthwith
Appear'd a shining throng
Of Angels praising GOD, and thus
addrest their joyful Song:
"All Glory be to GOD on High;
"and to the Earth be Peace;
"Good-will henceforth from Heav'n to Men
"begin and never cease.