Complete Anglican Hymns Old and New ‎#745

745. 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.

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 heav'nly babe you there shall find
to human view displayed,
all meanly wrapped in swaddling bands,
and in a manger laid.'

5 Thus spoke 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,
goodwill henceforth from heav'n to all
begin and never cease.'

Text Information

• First Line: While shepherds watched their flocks by night
• Title: While shepherds watched
• Author: Nahum Tate, 1652-1715
• Meter: CM
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 2000
• Scripture:
  Luke 2:8-20
• Topic: Years A, B, and C: Christmas Day

Tune Information

• Name: WINCHESTER OLD
• Meter: CM
• Key: F Major
• Source: Este's "Psalter" (1592)