Words: John Moreton, Birmingham (1764-1804)

Source: W. A. Pickard-Cambridge, A Collection of Dorset Carols (London: A. W. Ridley & Co., 1926), #2

1. While Shepherds were feeding their flocks in the field,
The birth of our Saviour to them was revealed;
And Angels assembling in clouds did appear
While Shepherds lay trembling,
    While Shepherds lay trembling and smitten with fear.

2. Forebear to be fearful, you've reason to sing:
Rejoice and be cheerful, glad tidings I bring;
There's born in the City of David therefore
A Saviour of pity, whom all will adore.

3. He's come to redeem us from guilt and from sin:
For love He would have you new lives to begin.
In love each believer shall gladly adore
For ever and ever, when time is no more.

Sheet Music - Tune 1: "King Street"
MIDI / Noteworthy Composer / PDF

Sheet Music - Tune 2
MIDI / Noteworthy Composer / PDF

Note from Pickard-Cambridge concerning Tune 2: The expression should be the same in each verse, as marked in the music.