(Part of a series singing through the hymnbook I grew up with: Great Hymns of the Faith)

The interesting thing to note about this hymn, is that it is printed as almost one big quote, listing what the angel said to the Shepherds.

1

While shepherds watch’d 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 all mankind,

To you and all mankind.

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 wrapt in swathing bands

And in a manger laid,

And in a manger laid.

5

“All glory be to God on high,

And to the earth be peace:

Good will henceforth from heav’n to men

Begin and never cease!

Begin and never cease!”