Saint Isidore The Farmer

Biography

Saint Isidore The Farmer, also known as Isidore Bonden, Isidore of Madrid, Isidore the Laborer, Isidore the Plowman, Isidro Labrador, Isidore the Worker, Isidoro l'agricoltore, and Isadore, was a pious farmer who lived in Madrid, Castille (part of modern Spain). He was born around 1070 and lived until 15 May 1130, when he died of natural causes. Isidore was buried at the Church of San Isidro in Madrid, where his body remains incorrupt to this day. Isidore was married to Saint Mary de la Cabeza, and together they had a son who died at a young age. The couple became convinced that it was God's will for them not to have children and chose to live a chaste life, dedicating themselves to performing good works. Isidore was a devout Catholic and was known for his strong faith. He would attend Mass daily and take time out for prayers, even if it meant shirking his duties as a farmer. This led to accusations from his fellow workers, who believed he was neglecting his work. However, Isidore claimed that he had no choice but to follow the highest Master, meaning God. One remarkable tale about Isidore recounts an incident when his master came to chastise him for skipping work to attend church. To the astonishment of his master, the fields were being plowed by angels in place of Isidore. This miracle testified to the sanctity of Isidore's devotion and his unwavering commitment to God. After Isidore's death, numerous miracles and cures were reported at his grave. His body remained incorrupt, further affirming his holiness and serving as a powerful testimony to his saintly life. Isidore was beatified on 2 May 1619 by Pope Paul V, and later canonized on 12 March 1622 by Pope Gregory XV. He is venerated as a patron saint against the death of children, as well as a protector of agricultural workers, day laborers, farm workers, farmers, field hands, husbandmen, laborers, livestock, ranchers, rural communities, the United States National Rural Life Conference, World Youth Day 2011, and several dioceses and cities around the world. In Italy, Isidore is particularly honored in the following places: Arbia, Canneto Sabino, Farnese, Giarre, Mandas, Matzaccara, Montegrosso, Andria, Rivalta di Torino, Rivoli Veronese, Rocca Massima, Schiavon, Taverne d'Arbia, Testa dell'Acqua, and Villanova d'Asti. In Peru, he is venerated in Carampa and Lima. In the Philippines, he is the patron saint of Angono, Asturias, Cebu, Bukidnon, Mindanao, Lucban, Morong, Nabas, Pulilan, Pulupandan, Sariaya, Tavalera, and Tayabas. In Sabana Grande, Puerto Rico, and several cities in Spain, such as Bujalance, Castalla, Estepona, Leon, Madrid, Orotava, Saragossa, Seville, and Villanueva de los Caballeros, Isidore is also venerated. Saint Isidore The Farmer is remembered as a shining example of devotion to God and service to others, particularly within the agricultural community. His life serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us to prioritize our faith and to see the presence of God in our daily work.