Journeysongs (3rd ed.) ‎#305

305. While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks

1 1 While shepherds watched their flocks by night,
All seated on the ground,
The angel of the Lord came down,
And glory shone around,
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,
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,
And this shall be the sign:

4 "The heav'nly Babe you there shall find
To human view displayed,
All meanly wrapped in swathing bands,
And in a manger laid,
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,
Addressed their joyful song:

6 "All glory be to God on high,
And to the earth be peace:
Good will henceforth from heav'n to all,
Begin and never cease!
Begin and never cease!"

Text Information

• First Line: While shepherds watched their flocks by night
• Title: While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks
• Author: Nahum Tate, 1652-1715 (alt.)
• Meter: 86 86 6
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 2012
• Scripture:
  Luke 2:8-14
• Topic: The Liturgical Year: Christmas (Days of)

Tune Information

• Name: CHRISTMAS
• Composer: George Frideric Handel, 1685-1759
• Meter: 86 86 6
• Key: C Major
• Source: Adapt.: Harmonia Sacra, 1812