The New Christian Hymnal ‎#62

62. While Shepherds Watched

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,
The 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 wrapt 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 most high,
And to the earth be peace;
Goodwill henceforth from heav'n to men
Begin, and never cease."

Text Information

• First Line: While shepherds watched their flocks by night
• Title: While Shepherds Watched
• Author: Nahum Tate (1702)
• Meter: C M D
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1929
• Topic: Jesus Christ: Birth

Tune Information

• Name: NOEL
• Arranger: Arthur Sullivan (1871)
• Meter: C M D
• Incipit: 12321 23432 55345
• Key: F Major