347.  While Shepherds Watched

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 Savior, 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!” Amen.