They were watching on the hillsides,
For the coming day,
With the starry folds of night above them spread;
When a glory flashed around them, like a ray,
Thro’ the pearly portals on them shed.

Refrain

Glory to God in the highest,
Came floating down the air;
Glory to God in the highest!
Seemed ringing everywhere;
Glory, glory, oh children,
Come sing that song again,
Glory to God in the highest!
Good will and peace to men.

Louder swell the joyful anthems
From the angel throng;
Over hill and vale the strains enchanted float;
See the wondering shepherds listening to the song,
Trembling, yet rejoicing at the sight!

Refrain

Oh, the joyful, joyful tidings!
For to you is born,
Christ the wondrous Savior and the mighty King;
Hail, ye waiting nations, hail the joyous morn!
Happy tidings now to earth we bring.

Refrain