Who Was St. Barnabas?

St. Barnabas 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.

Blessed Barnabas, pray for us!