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. Thus spake the seraph, and forthwith Appeared a shining throng Of angels praising God and thus Addressed their joyful song:
4. "All glory be to God on high And on the earth be peace, Goodwill henceforth from heaven to men Begin and never cease