350. 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.
Fear not,said he, for mighty dread
Had seized their troubled mind:
Glad tidings of great joy I bring
To you and all mankind.

2 To you, in David's town this day,
Is born of David's line
A Savior, 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.

3 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!

Amen.

Text Information
First Line: While shepherds watched their flocks by night
Title: While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks
Author: Nahum Tate (1700)
Meter: C. M. D.
Language: English
Publication Date: 1930
Topic: The Church Year: Christmas; Processionals and Recessionals: Christmas
Tune Information
Name: BETHLEHEM
Composer: G. W. Fink (1742)
Meter: C. M. D.
Key: D Major



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