Devout farmworker Isidore, his name echoes through the ages. San Isidro Labrador’s story is one of faith, miracles, and deep connection to the land. Born near Madrid around 1070, Isidore dedicated his life to tilling the soil and honoring God.
San Isidro Labrador, or San Isidro the Farmer, spent his days working for wealthy landowners. He shared his meager meals with the poor. His generosity and piety became legendary. Even today, San Isidro Labrador is celebrated as the patron saint of farmers.
Legend says San Isidro Labrador would attend Mass each morning. His fellow workers grumbled that he arrived late to the fields. One day, the landowner investigated. He found San Isidro Labrador in prayer as an angel plowed the field for him.
Another time, angels plowed on either side of San Isidro Labrador. His work equaled that of three ordinary men. San Isidro Labrador is also credited with bringing his master’s daughter back from the dead. He even caused a spring of fresh water to burst forth to quench his master’s thirst.
Once, San Isidro Labrador was on his way to the mill with a sack of wheat. He saw wood pigeons searching for food in the snow. Taking pity, he poured half his wheat for the birds. Witnesses mocked him. Yet, when he arrived at the mill, the sack was full. The wheat produced twice the expected amount of flour.
San Isidro Labrador’s wife, Maria, always kept a pot of stew simmering. Isidore often brought home the hungry. One day, she told him there was no more stew. He insisted she check again. Miraculously, she spooned out enough to feed everyone.
San Isidro Labrador died in 1130. His body was discovered to be incorrupt in 1212 after torrential rains exhumed bodies from Madrid cemeteries. He is said to have appeared to Alfonso VIII of Castile. San Isidro Labrador showed him a hidden path to defeat the Moors.
King Philip III was cured of a disease after touching the saint’s relics. He replaced the reliquary with silver and began the beatification process. The number of miracles attributed to San Isidro Labrador is said to be 438.
San Isidro Labrador was beatified in 1619 and canonized in 1725. His relics were moved to the Royal Alcazar of Madrid in 1696. A locksmith pulled a tooth from the body for King Charles II. In 1769, Charles III relocated the remains of San Isidro Labrador and his wife to the San Isidro Church in Madrid.
Today, San Isidro Labrador is venerated. He is the patron saint of farmers, peasants, laborers, and agriculture. Many places in the former Spanish Empire honor him. His feast day is celebrated on May 15th. San Isidro Labrador is often depicted holding a sickle and sheaf of corn. Sometimes he is shown with angels plowing for him.
The life of San Isidro Labrador reminds us of the dignity of work. Ordinary life can lead to holiness. Legends of angels and oxen show his duties were fulfilled. If your spirit is in order, your earthly commitments will also fall into place. San Isidro Labrador’s legacy lives on.