Saint Isidore

by Chrissy Grace

The laughter of the people at table was almost deafening. Jokes, stories, memories--they were all the topic of conversation you heard at the festival meal. "Where’s Isidore?" someone called out. "He’s coming. I invited him." And the meal went on till it was almost ended, there in the evening twilight.

"Here he is," called the door keeper, "Crunch, crunch, crunch," you hear as not one pair of farmer’s boots but a long line comes in the door. You notice the nervous silence creeping from person to person. "Isidore," the host begins. "We saved enough food for you. After all, we had invited YOU to the dinner." "Thank you for your invitation," you hear the gentle voice of Isidore respond without apology.

"I don’t think you get it. Who are all these other people off the streets. We don’t have food for them here."

"Don’t be afraid, you have enough food here for me and for Christ’s poor. Let the party go on!" So you hear the talking start up as the beggars shuffle around the table. "Thank you." "Here, take some more." "Could I have some of that." "Sure."

What is this? Everyone is happy. No one is hungry. Isidore has made us understand that when we feed the poor we feed Jesus, and that if we share, we won’t go hungry. I can share my food, next time I’m in the same shoes.

Isidore was born in Madrid, Spain.

He was a farmer all his life. It is said angels used to help him with his work.

Isidore worked miracles throughout his life and was known for his kindness for the poor and for animals.

His wife is also considered a saint.

Isidore died on May 15, 1130.