What language is As The Shepherds Watch sung in?

As The Shepherds Watch is sung in English, French, Nzebi.

As The Shepherds Watch — Lyrics & Sheet Music (PDF)

Q: What are the lyrics of As The Shepherds Watch?

“As The Shepherds Watch” begins: As the shepherds wtch'ed the stars by night until the dawn of day,… Read the full lyrics on ChoirPDFs.

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Added Sep 28, 2025

Uploaded By: Choir PDFs

Format: Solfa

Language: English, French, Nzebi

Pages: 1 page

As The Shepherds Watch — Lyrics

VERSE 1 As the shepherds wtch'ed the stars by night until the dawn of day, When they h'rd a sound reecho from a distance far away. And when suddenly there came a light that told them of the birth, Yet more strong the voice resounded from the ends of all the earth. REFRAIN Glory be to God on high And on earth with peace to men. For the Saviour and Redeemer who did Make our sins to fly, now He r'gns with God the Father, glory be to God on high. VERSE 2 'Twas the Child who came to teach the world of God's eternal love; Who was born so weak and feeble, but who came from heaven above. It was He who came to suffer and to die for all mankind, Who was laid upon a manger as the shepherds there did find. VERSE 3 As we sing this Christmas hymn the Saviour's gone into the sky.

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About As The Shepherds Watch

"As The Shepherds Watch" pairs a classic-sounding Christmas narrative with a vibrant Gabonese thanksgiving chant, creating a wonderful set for the festive season. The first section unfolds the story of the nativity, carrying the choir through the quiet watch of the shepherds to the sudden, resounding chorus of the angels. Its verses build a sense of awe, culminating in a bright, joyful refrain where all voices join to sing "Glory be to God on high." It is an excellent choice for Christmas Mass, especially during the Offertory or as a lively carol.

The second half of the score transitions into "Ma Zu Be Wa A Tat," a traditional chant d'action de grace from Gabon. Sung in the Nzebi language, this rhythmic piece brings a completely different energy to the loft. With its driving pulse and call-and-response structure, it serves as a powerful song of thanksgiving. Together, these two pieces offer a choir the chance to celebrate the incarnation with both solemn storytelling and exuberant African praise.