The Shepherds and the Angels

In fields near Bethlehem there were shepherds who were keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them,

and the glory of the Lord shone around them. The shepherds were terrified. The angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you. You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manager."

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests."

After the angels left and went back to heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."

So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told to them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.