188 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 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 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 to the earth be peace; Good-will henceforth from heaven to men Begin and never cease."