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. The holly bears a blossom, As white as the lily flower, And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ, To be our sweet Saviour. Refrain The holly bears a berry, As red as any blood, And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ For to do us sinners good. Refrain The holly bears a prickle, As sharp as any thorn, And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ On Christmas Day in the morn. Refrain The holly bears a bark, As bitter as any gall, And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ For to redeem us all. Refrain