Shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
Luke 2:8
Words: Anonymous, in Christmas carols and Hymns, edited by Hollis E. Dann (New York: American Book Company, 1910), pages 19–20.
Music: Myles B. Foster (🔊 pdf nwc).
If you know where to get a good photo of Foster (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels),
Watching in the meadows
O’er their flocks by night,
Shepherds heard glad tidings,
Saw Heaven’s wondrous light!
Hallelujahs heard they
From the angels then—
Peace on earth,
their message,
And Goodwill to men!
Peace on earth,
their message,
And Goodwill to men!
Peace on earth,
Peace on earth.
Hark, that joyous message!
Mourners, cease to grieve!
Join to hail with gladness,
Blessèd Christmas Eve!
Children, let those tidings
Ring forth once again:
Glory in the highest,
And Goodwill to men!
Glory in the highest,
And Goodwill to men!
Peace on earth,
Peace on earth.