What’s distinctive about your parish?
Located in the heart of rolling hills that line the Blue Ridge Mountains, St. Isidore the Farmer Church in Orange has led the faithful of Orange County to Christ for more than two decades. After merging two parishes previously ministered to by Missionhurst priests and then given back to the diocese, the establishment of St. Isidore united the two communities. The church was dedicated in 2002 by Bishop Paul S. Loverde. St. Isidore’s warm, reverent beauty through the sacraments and lively parish life have attracted parishioners.
What’s the one unique thing visitors to your parish should do or see while there?
Once entering the church, visitors may notice the vibrant stained-glass windows that reflect its patron saint, St. Isidore the Farmer. The 11th-century Spanish saint glorified God through his livelihood and is the patron of farmers and rural communities. Visitors may notice a collection of crops and flowers lining the windows, illustrating St. Isidore’s devotion to serving others through his work.
Tell us about a parish ministry.
Parishioners assist the mission of the Paul Stefan Foundation for crisis pregnancy by volunteering and fundraising to protect the unborn and support pregnant women. Father Terrence R. Staples, pastor, has also partnered with the organization to raise money for their new regional home in Orange.
Is there a special way your parish encourages and supports faith formation?
St. Isidore offers Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults classes and is home to several ministries including the Legion of Mary, Women’s Club and many others. Eucharistic adoration on Fridays 1-9 p.m. has brought parishioners together in recent years for additional worship opportunities.
What would a visitor say about your parish, and how do new parishioners get involved?
Visitors will recognize the bonds that parishioners have to the tight-knit community at St. Isidore, which is always welcoming to newcomers. Oftentimes when visitors arrive, they comment on the beauty of the church, the solemnity of the liturgy and the friendly atmosphere.
New parishioners can get involved by visiting the office and completing a registration form.
What’s something we should know about your clergy?
Father Staples was named the pastor of St. Isidore in 2009. He was ordained by Bishop John R. Keating and previously served as parochial vicar of St. Mary of Sorrows Church in Fairfax; St. Louis Church and St. Lawrence Church in Alexandria; and St. Luke Church in McLean. He also served as temporary administrator for St. Lawrence and pastor of St. Louis.
Quick Facts
St. Isidore the Farmer Church
14414 St. Isidore Wy.
Orange
540-672-4933
Website: saintisidorethefarmer.com
Mass times: Sat. (vigil): 5 p.m.; Sun.: 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Mon., Tues., Wed. and Fri.: 12:15 p.m.; first Sat.: 9 a.m.
Confession: Mon., Tues., Wed. and Fri.: 11:45 a.m.-noon; Sat.: 4-4:45 p.m.; Sun.: 7:15-7:45 a.m., 10:15-10:45 a.m.
Pastor: Fr. Terrence R. Staples
Year established: 2001
Total parishioners: 370
