Saint Barnabas

St. Barnabas played a pivotal role in the spread of Christianity and is considered to be nearly as influential as the original Twelve Apostles. Born in Cyprus, St. Barnabas, originally named Joseph, was a Levite. The early Christian community in Jerusalem acknowledged his passion and generosity. He sold a piece of land he owned and donated the proceeds to the apostles' common fund, demonstrating his dedication to the communal life and welfare of the early Christians. This compassionate act earned him the name Barnabas, which means "son of encouragement" or "son of consolation."

After St. Paul's dramatic conversion from a persecutor of Christians to a fervent apostle of Christ, many were wary of him. It was Barnabas who stood by Paul, introducing him to the other apostles in Jerusalem and vouching for his genuine transformation and commitment to Christ's teachings. This partnership between Paul and Barnabas was instrumental in establishing and strengthening the early Christian communities throughout the Mediterranean. Throughout their travels, they faced opposition from both Jews and non-Jews, but their preaching led to many conversions and the founding of several Christian communities. When a Christian community developed at Antioch, Barnabas was sent as the official representative of the church of Jerusalem to incorporate them into the fold. 

A disagreement between Barnabas and Paul regarding including John Mark in their mission work led to them parting ways. Despite the separation, Barnabas, known for his reconciliatory nature, took John Mark and continued their missionary work in Cyprus. Later, Paul, Barnabas, and Mark were able to reconcile. St. Barnabas met a martyr's death in Cyprus, stoned because of his preaching. Barnabas is remembered as someone who dedicated his life to the Lord. He was a man filled with the Holy Spirit and faith. Even when he and Paul were expelled from Antioch in Pisidia, they were "filled with joy and the Holy Spirit." St. Barnabas continues to be an inspiring example of steadfast faith and dedication to spreading the word of God, even in the face of adversity.

O Lord God Almighty, who gave your holy Apostle Barnabas special gifts of the Holy Spirit: We ask You not to leave us without Your manifold gifts, and help us to use them always for Your honor and glory.

Jonathan Fabian Ginunggil,

Most High Servant,

Jesus, Mary, Joseph Ministry of Love (Blessed  and Saints and the Nine Choirs of Angels)