’Twas a calm and peaceful night
On the sacred hills of old;
From above the stars shone bright,
Flashing down their beams of gold.
Shepherds kept strict vigil there
While their flocks lay calmly by,
When a scene of beauty rare
Fell upon each wondering eye.

Refrain

Holy angels from the realms above,
Came to earth on wings of love;
Singing glory o’er and o’er again,
Peace on earth, good will to men.

’Mid the glory shining round,
Stood the angel of the Lord;
Bowing fearful, to the ground,
Thus the shepherds heard his word.
Fear thou not, for now, behold
Tidings of great joy I bring;
As the prophets have foretold
Unto you is born a King.

Refrain

Scarcely finished was his word,
When a host of angels sang;
Heav’nly strains the watchers stirred,
While the hills of Judea rang.
Song of glory heard they then,
Glory to our God on high;
Peace on earth, good will to men,
Chanted angels hovering nigh.

Refrain

When the song was hushed and still,
Back to Heav’n the angels sped;
Every heart with joy did thrill
At the words the angel said.
Quickly then the shepherds went
O’er the hills and valleys wild,
To the place whence they were sent;
There they found the holy Child.

Refrain