Mvmt II, “Begin and Never Cease”
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 minds
"glad tidings of great joy I bring
To you and all mankind!"
O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy
"to you in David's town this day
Is born of David's line
The Savior, who is Christ the Lord
And this shall be the sign:
The Heavenly Babe you there shall find
To human view displayed
And meanly wrapped in swathing bands
And in a manger laid"
O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy
Noel! Noel!
Noel! Noel!
Born is the King of Israel!
O come, let us adore Him!
O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord!
"all glory be to God on high
And to the earth be peace!
Good will henceforth from God to man:
Begin and never cease!"