The Presbyterian Hymnal ‎#58

58. While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks

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 humankind.

3 "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.

4 "The heavenly Babe you there shall find
To human view displayed,
All humbly 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 to all from highest heaven
Begin and never cease!"

Text Information

• First Line: While shepherds watched their flocks by night
• Title: While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks
• Author: Nahum Tate (1700; alt. 1987)
• Meter: CM
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1990
• Scripture:
  Luke 2:10-14

Tune Information

• Name: WINCHESTER OLD
• Composer (desc.): Alan Gray (1923)
• Meter: CM
• Key: F Major
• Source: Este's Psalmes, 1592
• Copyright: Descant copyright by Cambridge University Press. Used by permission.