St. Barnabas was an important early Christian missionary in the New Testament and one of the Apostolic Fathers.
General Info
Barnabas was a hellenized Jew who joined the Jerusalem church soon after Christ’s crucifixion. He sold his property, and gave the proceeds to the community (Acts 4:36–37). He was one of the Cypriots who founded (Acts 11:19–20) the church in Antioch, where he preached. After he called St. Paul from Tarsus as his assistant (Acts 11:25), they undertook joint missionary activity (Acts 13–14) and then went to Jerusalem in 48. Shortly afterward, a serious conflict separated them, and Barnabas sailed to Cyprus (Acts 15:39).
Who Was St. Barnabas
St. Barnabas, as mentioned, was a Levite from Cyprus who, with St. Paul, was an apostle to the gentiles. Originally named Joseph, the other apostles gave him the name Barnabas, which means “son of encouragement”. All possessions were held in common, so Barnabas sold a field he owned, brought the money, and laid it at the apostles’ feet. He became a leader of the Church in Jerusalem.
We know that when Paul, who had been a persecutor of Christians, was converted and wanted to join Jesus’ followers, the disciples were understandably skeptical about Paul. It was Barnabas who advocated for him and encouraged others to forgive him. Barnabas is, therefore, the patron saint of second chances.
Barnabas brought many to the faith in Antioch and it was there that the followers of Jesus were first called Christians. The Acts of the Apostles also recounts his central role in sending aid to those impacted by a severe famine. Additionally, he is one of several proposed authors of the Epistle to the Hebrews.
While the exact details are disputed, tradition holds that he was martyred at Salamis in Cyprus. His feast day is celebrated on June 11.
St. Barnabas, Encouragement!
Blessed Barnabas, pray for us!
Source: Britannica.com
