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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:
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.



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