Each year on June 11, the Church celebrates the feast of St. Barnabas the Apostle, a man whose name means “son of encouragement”—a fitting title for one of the early Church’s most faithful and generous missionaries. Though not one of the original Twelve Apostles, Barnabas is honored with the title “apostle” for his vital role in spreading the Gospel and building up the early Christian community.
A Life of Generosity and Faith
Born a Jew on the island of Cyprus, Barnabas was originally named Joseph, but the apostles gave him the name Barnabas because of his inspiring spirit. The Acts of the Apostles tells us that he was a Levite, and among the first believers in Jerusalem. Early on, Barnabas sold a field he owned and gave the proceeds to the apostles (Acts 4:36-37), showing his deep commitment to the community and to Christ’s mission.
Mentor to St. Paul
One of Barnabas’s most significant acts of encouragement came when Saul of Tarsus, the former persecutor of Christians, converted and sought to join the disciples. Many were afraid of Saul, but Barnabas believed in his conversion. He personally introduced Saul to the apostles and vouched for his sincerity and zeal (Acts 9:27). This act not only opened the door for Saul—later known as Paul—but also sparked one of the greatest missionary partnerships in Church history.
Missionary Journeys
Barnabas and Paul were chosen by the Holy Spirit to embark on the first major missionary journey of the Church. They traveled through Cyprus and parts of modern-day Turkey, preaching the Gospel, performing miracles, and establishing Christian communities. Barnabas showed boldness in the face of persecution, and humility in partnership, always putting the mission first.
Though he and Paul later parted ways over a disagreement about John Mark (Acts 15:36–39), Barnabas’s decision to give John Mark a second chance is another example of his gift for encouraging and nurturing others, even when it meant taking a less prominent path.
Legacy of St. Barnabas
St. Barnabas is a powerful reminder of the importance of kindness, generosity, and second chances. His life teaches us that being a missionary disciple is not only about bold preaching but also about lifting others up, building community, and believing in people when they need it most.
He is the patron saint of Cyprus, and also of those who encourage others in the faith—catechists, teachers, and missionaries alike.
On his feast day, we ask:
St. Barnabas, son of encouragement, pray for us—
that we may build up the Body of Christ with joyful hearts,
bold spirits, and generous love.