Winter now has bared the trees,
Killed with tiny swords the jolly
Leafage that mid-summer sees,
But left the ivy and the holly.
Hold them high
And make delight
For ChristË’s joy that’s born to-night.

All green things but these have hid
Their heads, or died in melancholy,
Winter’s spite them all has rid
Save only ivy and brave holly.
Give them place
In all men’s sight
For ChristË’s grace that’s born to-night.

Baby eyes are pleased to see
Bright red berries and children jolly,
So shout and dance and sing with glee,
And honour ivy and prickly holly.
Honour courage
And make delight
For ChristË’s sake that’s born to-night.

Christus natus hodie!
Drink deep of joy on Christmas Day,
Join hands and sing a roundelay,
For this is Christ’s and children’s day,
Christus natus hodie!
Hodie!