Common Praise (1998) ‎#136

136. 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
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 earth be peace;
good will henceforth from heaven to me
begin and never cease."

Text Information

• First Line: While shepherds watched their flocks by night
• Title: While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks
• Paraphraser: Nahum Tate (1652-1715) (alt.)
• Meter: CM
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1998
• Scripture:
  Luke 2:1-20
• Topic: Christmas; Epiphany

Tune Information

• Name: WINCHESTER OLD
• Composer (descant): Craig Sellar Lang (1891-1971)
• Meter: CM
• Source: Whole Booke of Psalmes, 1592
• Copyright: Descant © Novello & Co, Ltd. / Shawnee Press, Inc.