The angel of the Lord came down, And glory shone around;

Fear not! said he, for mighty dread Had seized their troubled mind;

Glad tidings of great joy I bring To you and all mankind.

To you in David’s town this day Is born of David’s line

A Saviour, who is Christ the Lord; And this shall be the sign:

The heavenly Babe you there shall find, To human view displayed,

All meanly wrapped in swaddling bands, And in a manger laid.

  • Coventry Patmore