Collection: 📚 St. Barnabas

St. Barnabas was an early disciple of Christ and one of the most influential missionaries of the Apostolic Age. A native of Cyprus and a Levite by birth, his original name was Joseph. The Apostles gave him the name Barnabas, meaning “son of encouragement,” because of his generosity, faith, and ability to strengthen others in their Christian life.

After his conversion, Barnabas sold his property and donated the proceeds to support the early Christian community in Jerusalem. He played a crucial role in welcoming St. Paul after Paul's conversion, helping the Church accept him as a genuine disciple. Barnabas later accompanied Paul on missionary journeys throughout the eastern Mediterranean, preaching the Gospel and establishing Christian communities. Together they helped spread Christianity among the Gentiles and participated in the important discussions that led to the Council of Jerusalem.

Tradition holds that Barnabas eventually returned to Cyprus, where he continued preaching the Gospel and suffered martyrdom for the faith. Although not one of the Twelve Apostles, the Church honors him as an Apostle because of his pivotal role in the growth and spread of Christianity.

Lived: 1st Century AD | Feast Day: June 11 | Canonized: Pre-Congregation
Patronage: Cyprus, peacemakers, missionaries, and those engaged in evangelization