Our Isidore is referred to as "the farmer" in order to distinguish him from St. Isidore the bishop. At an early age, Isidore became a farm hand on an estate outside of Madrid. He worked faithfully all his life on this farm. A man of simplicity, he became known among his fellow workers for his deep faith. Some of them complained that he was often late for work because he would remain after mass in prayer. He would also pray as he ploughed the fields. His work never suffered as a result and legends grew that Isidore had angel helpers or mysterious white oxen in order to do more than his share in less time than the others. From him we can learn that when one has his spiritual life in order, one's other commitments will fall into order as well. Isidore was true to the teachings of Jesus, "Set your hearts on his kingdom first, and on his righteousness, and all these other things will be given to you as well" (Mt. 6:33).
We can also find in Isidore an excellent example that deep prayer is possible for everyone, no matter what our status in life or education. God calls all his people to holiness. Isidore was married to Maria de la Cabeza, who has also been declared a saint. Unfortunately, their only child died at an early age. What a fine example of Christian marriage that both husband and wife could assist each other to reach perfection. Both were known in their day for their great love for the poor. Some even said that food miraculously appeared to enable them to feed the hungry. Isidore also had great concern that animals were well treated.
Isidore died on May 15 (the day on which we celebrate his feast day) in 1130 and was declared a saint in 1622. We are fortunate to have this simple, holy farmer as our patron, given the rural tradition of our parish. In addition to being our patron, he is also the patron saint of Madrid, of another parish in our diocese, St. Isidore de Prescott, and of farmers and some rural associations.