Saint Isidore, Pray for Us!
“Pater Meus Agricola Est”
“My Father is the Vinedresser”
Saint Isidore the Faremer was born in Madrid, Spain, and lived from about 1070 to 1130. He is also known as “St. Isidore the Laborer” or “St. Isidore the Husbandman.” He was married to Blessed Maria de la Cabeza. His traditional feast is March 22nd and the new feast is the date of his death, May 15th. Isidore is the patron of peasants and day-laborers.
Saint Isidore was born to poor parents who were also farmers. He was named after the other Saint Isidore, of Seville, who is a Doctor of the Church, the “Schoolmaster of the Middle Ages.” The most famous story about Saint Isidore the Farmer, is the account of his employer witnessing the presence of angels, helping him with his work. He was also known for miracles, particularly involving water. Blessed Maria is also invoked in Spain for drought. Isidore was kind to all, especially those even poorer than he. After death, he notably assisted the rulers of Spain and is honored by various Spanish cities.
Other saints which may be invoked regarding nature and sustainability, are Saint Francis of Assisi, Saint Hildegard of Bingen, Saint Rose of Lima and Saint Fiacre.
O God, through the intercession of Saint Isidore the holy Farmer, grant that we may overcome all feelings of pride. May we always serve Thee with that humility which pleases Thee, through Saint Isidore’s merits and example. Amen.
Regarding the agrarian “Authentic Life” versus the “New World Order,” take a look at the stone relief above. That is Benjamin Franklin in the center. How would you interpret this?
Image St. Isidore & prayer slightly edited, courtesy faithofthefathersangels.blogspot.com, Image stone relief courtesy Michael Wann