99. While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks

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

3 "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,
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,
And in a manger laid."

5 Thus spake the seraph; and forthwith
Appeared a shining throng
Of angels, praising God on high,
Who thus addressed their song,
Who thus addressed their 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!
Begin and never cease!"

AMEN.

Text Information
First Line: While shepherds watched their flocks by night
Title: While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks
Author: Nahum Tate, 1652-1715
Meter: C M
Language: English
Publication Date: 1999
Topic: Advent and Nativity
Tune Information
Name: CHRISTMAS
Arranger: George F Handel, 1685-1759
Meter: C M
Key: D Major



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