Flocks were sleeping, shepherds keeping, vigil till the morning new,
Saw the glory, heard the story, tidings of a gospel true.
Thus rejoicing, free from sorrow, praises voicing, greet the morrow,
Christ the Babe was born for you. Christ the Babe was born for you.

As with gladness men of old, did the guiding star behold,
As with joy they hailed it's light, Leading onward beaming bright.
So most gracious God may we, Evermore be led to thee

As with joyful steps they speed, To that lowly manger-bed.
There to bend the knee before, Him whom heaven and earth adore.
So may we with willing feet, Ever seek thy mercy-seat.

As they offered gifts most rare, at that manger rude and bare.
So may we with holy joy, Pure, and free from sin's alloy.
All our costliest treasures bring, Christ, to thee our Heavenly King.

Holy Jesu, every day, keep us in the narrow way.
And, when earthly things are past, bring our ransomed souls at last,
Where they need to star to guide, where no clouds thy glory hide.

In the heavenly country bright, need they no created light.
Thou it's light, it's joy, it's crown, thou it's sun which goes not down.
There for ever may we sing, Alleluyas to our King.

While shepherds 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 find to human view displayed
All meanly wrapped in swathing bands and in a manger laid.'

Thus spake the Seraph and forthwith appeared a shining throng,
Of angels praising God, who 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.