While shepherds watched 
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 seized their troubled minds
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 
A saviour, who is Christ the Lord
And this shall be the sign

The Heav’nly babe you there shall find
To human view displayed
All meanly wrapped in swathing bands
And in a manger laid

Thus spake the Seraph; and forthwith
Appeared a shining throng 
Of angels praising God
Who thus addressed their joyful song 

All glory be to God on High
And to the earth be peace 
Goodwill henceforth from heav’n to men 
Begin and never cease