The Holly And The Ivy

1 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.

Refrain:
The rising of the sun
and the running of the deer,
the playing of the merry organ,
sweet singing in the choir.

2 The holly bears a blossom,
white as the lily flower,
and Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ,
to be our sweet Saviour. [Refrain]

3 The holly bears a berry,
as red as any blood,
and Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
to do poor sinners good. [Refrain]

4 The holly bears a prickle,
as sharp as any thorn,
and Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
on Christmas day in the morn. [Refrain]

5 The holly bears a bark,
as bitter as any gall,
and Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
for to redeem us all. [Refrain]

6 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. [Refrain]

Source: Complete Anglican Hymns Old and New #645

• MIDI file from The Cyber Hymnal #2513
  
• Audio recording from Small Church Music #1466
• Audio recording from Small Church Music #1466