The New Church Hymnal ‎#532

532. 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 minds.
"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 heav'nly 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 "All glory be to God on high,
And to the earth be peace.
Goodwill henceforth from heav'n to men
Begin and never cease,
Begin and never cease!"

Text Information

• First Line: While shepherds watched their flock by night
• Title: While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks
• Author: Nahum Tate
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1976
• Topic: Christmas

Tune Information

• Name: [While shepherds watched their flock by night]
• Composer: George F. Handel
• Key: D Major