89b. While shepherds watched their flocks by night

1 While shepherds watched their flocks by night,
all seated on the ground,
the angel of the Lord came down,
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.

3 '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:

4 'the heavenly babe you there shall find
to human view displayed,
all meanly wrapped in swathing bands,
and in a manger laid.'

5 Thus spake the seraph; and forthwith
appeared a shining throng
of angels praising God, who thus
addressed their joyful 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.'

Text Information
First Line: While shepherds watched their flocks by night
Author: Nahum Tate (1652-1715)
Meter: Irregular
Language: English
Publication Date: 2013
Scripture:
Topic: Angels; Children and All-Age Worship; Christmas (2 more...)
Notes: When sung to CRANBROOK the last line of each verse is sung three times.
Tune Information
Name: CRANBROOK
Composer: Thomas Clark (1775-1859)
Arranger: David Peacock (b. 1949)
Meter: Irregular
Key: B♭ Major
Copyright: Arrangement: © David Peacock / The Jubilate Group. Administered by The Jubilate Group, Kitley House, St Katherines Road, Torquay TQ1 4DE Used by permission.



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