Shepherds! Shake off your drowsy sleep,
Rise and leave your silly sheep;
Angels from Heav’n around loud singing,
Tidings of great joy are bringing,

Refrain

Shepherds! The chorus come and swell!
Sing Nowell, O sing Nowell!

Hark! Even now the bells ring ’round;
Listen to their merry sound!
Hark! How the birds new songs are making,
As if winter’s chains were breaking,

Refrain

Cometh at length the age of peace,
Strife and sorrow now shall cease;
Prophets foretold the wondrous story
Of this Heaven-born Prince of glory,

Refrain

Shepherds! Then up and quick away!
Seek the Babe ere break of day;
He is the hope of every nation,
All in Him shall find salvation,

Refrain