THE CHURCH
CONGREGATIONAL HYMNS

While Shepherd Watched Their Flocks by Night

by NAHUM TATS, 1652-1715.

While shepherd watched their flocks by night
All seated on the ground,
The angel of the Lord came down,
And glory shone around
Fear not! Said he; for mighty dread
Had seized their troubled mind
Glad tidings of great joy I bring
To you and all mankind.
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
The heavenly Babe you there shall fine
To human view displayed
All meanly wrapped in swaddling bands
And in a manger laid
Thus spake the seraph; and forth with
Appeared a shinning throng
Of angels praising God, and thus
Addressed their joyful song.
All glory be to God on high,
And to the Earth be peace
Good will henceforth from heaven to men
Begin and never cease?