The Holly and the Ivy II

Traditional Carol

words adapted by Hilda Marshall

The holly and the ivy

When they are both full grown

Of all the trees that are in the wood

The holly bears the crown.

Chorus:

Oh, the rising of the sun

And the running of the deer

The shining of the winter stars

As the longer days draw near.

The holly bears a blossom

As white as any flower

As our Mother bears the infant Sun

In the winter's darkest hour.

Chorus

The holly bears a berry

As red as any blood

As our Father bears the hunter's spear

for His hungry children's good.

Chorus

The holly bears a prickle

As sharp as any thorn

As we shall bear our song of hope

On triumphant Yuletide morn.

Chorus