Church Hymnary (4th ed.) ‎#296

296. While humble shepherds watched their flocks

1 While humble shepherds watched their flocks
in Bethlehem's plains by night,
an angel sent from heaven appeared,
and filled the plains with light.

2 'Fear not' he said, for sudden 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,
the 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 swaddling-bands,
and in a manger laid.'

5 Thus spake the seraph: and forthwith
appeared a shining throng
of angels praising God; and thus
addressed their joyful song:

6 'All glory be to God on high,
and to the earth be peace:
good will is shown from heaven above
and never more shall cease.'

Text Information

• First Line: While humble shepherds watched their flocks
• Meter: CM
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 2005
• Scripture:
  Luke 2:8-14
• Source: Scottish Paraphrases, 1781

Tune Information

• Name: WINCHESTER OLD
• Meter: CM
• Key: F Major
• Source: Melody from Este's Psalter, 1592