The New English Hymnal ‎#42

42. 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 on 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: CM
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1986
• Topic: The Christian Year: Christmas

Tune Information

• Name: WINCHESTER OLD
• Composer (descant): Alan Gray, 1855-1935
• Meter: CM
• Key: F Major
• Source: Thomas Este's Psalter, 1592