The Irish Presbyterian Hymnbook ‎#R37b

R37b. While humble shepherds watch'd their flocks

1 While humble shepherds watch'd their flocks
in Bethleh'm's plains by night,
an angel sent from heav'n appear'd,
and fill'd the plains with light.
2 Fear not, he said, (for sudden dread
had seiz'd 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 Saviour, who is Christ the Lord;
and this shall be the sign:
4 the heav'nly Babe you there shall find
to human view display'd,
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, and thus
address'd their joyful song:
6 All glory be to God on high,
and to the earth be peace;
good-will is shown by Heav'n to men,
and never more shall cease.

Text Information

• First Line: While humble shepherds watch'd their flocks
• Meter: CM
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 2004
• Notes: May sing to EVANGEL (#139) or WINCHESTER OLD (#137)

Tune Information

• Name: GRÄFENBERG
• Harmonizer: Thomas Cuthbertson Leitead Pritchard, 1885-1960
• Meter: CM
• Key: G Major
• Source: Johann Crüger's Praxis Pietatis Melica, 1647