Hymns for Today's Church (2nd ed.) ‎#94

94. 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 —
'Good news of greatest joy I bring
to you and all mankind.

3 'To you in Bethlehem 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,
in simple clothing tightly wrapped
and in a manger laid.'

5 Thus spoke 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!
To those on whom his favour rests
goodwill shall never cease.'

Text Information

• First Line: While shepherds watched their flocks by night
• Author: N. Tate (1652-1715)
• Meter: 8 6 8 6 (CM)
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1987
• Scripture:
  Luke 2:8-14
• Topic: God, Saviour: Born (Christmas Seasonal); Christmas 1: The Incarnation

Tune Information

• Name: WINCHESTER OLD
• Arranger: W. H. Monk (1823-1889)
• Arranger (st. 6): John Barnard (born 1948)
• Composer (descant): John Barnard (born 1948)
• Meter: 8 6 8 6 (CM)
• Key: F Major or modal
• Source: T. Este's Psalmes 1592
• Copyright: Descant and arr. © John Barnard