The Holly and the Ivy III

Tune:  Traditional Carol

Source Unknown

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

Oh, the rising of the Sun and the running of the deer

The turning of the winter season

Sweet singing all may hear.

The Holly bears a berry

As red as any blood

And the ivy grows upon the rock

Evergreen throughout the wood.

Oh, the rising of the Sun and the running of the deer

The hand upon the harpstring

Sweet singing in the choir

The Holly bears a blossom

White as the lily's flower

And the Goddess bears the Sun again

To bring us strength and power

Oh, the rising of the Sun and the running of the deer

The playing of the merry pipes

Sweet singing in the shire

The Holly bears a prickle

As sharp as any thorn

And the Goddess in her ivy gown

Greets the winter sun each morn

Oh, the rising of the Sun and the running of the deer

The playing of the merry organ

Sweet singing in the choir

The Holly ever bears a bark

Bitter as any gall

And the ivy weaves within our lives

Like the Goddess in us all

Oh, the rising of the Sun and the running of the deer

The turning of the winter season

Sweet singing all may hear