ADVENT 2: HOLLY

TREES OF ADVENT: HOLLY & IVY | JESUS & MARY BRING JOY ENTWINED
{Ilex aquifolium & Hedera helix}

“Wisdom is a life-giving tree, the source of happiness for all who hold on to her.” Proverbs 3:18

Before Victorians adopted the German custom of decorated fir trees, holly bushes were popularly known as "Christmas trees" across Britain. In the traditional English carol, the holly’s sharp thorns and red berries recall Jesus’ passion and blood even as its evergreen leaves promise eternal life. Mary is evoked as twining ivy that grows steadily: faithfully nurturing new and joyful vitality.

Might we too rejoice in the coming of “our sweet Savior” – clinging like humble, verdant vines to Jesus, who, by his death and resurrection, redeemed the whole world?

"The Holly and the Ivy" (traditional English carol)

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.

O 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 Savior.​