St. Barnabas
St. Barnabas
St. Barnabas: The Unwavering Apostle of Unity
When he lived:
St. Barnabas, the inspiring figure in the early Christian church, lived during the 1st century AD, making his mark
during a time of significant transformation and challenges.
Where he lived:
St. Barnabas was born on the island of Cyprus, a place steeped in ancient history and culture. The island’s diverse
communities and thriving trade routes played a crucial role in shaping Barnabas’ worldview.
Notable world events during the time of his life:
- The Great Fire of Rome (64 AD): In the midst of St. Barnabas’ life, the mighty city of Rome,
center of the Roman Empire, experienced a catastrophic fire that lasted for six days and devastated vast areas.
The incident sparked rumors that Emperor Nero himself had ordered the fire to clear space for his grandiose
palace, leading to widespread persecution of Christians, including St. Barnabas, who faced tremendous trials for
his beliefs. - The Jewish-Roman War (66-73 AD): As St. Barnabas diligently spread the teachings of
Christianity, the Jewish-Roman War erupted in the Holy Land. The conflict resulted in the destruction of the
Second Temple in Jerusalem and caused immense suffering for both Jews and early Christians. St. Barnabas’
courage and determination to promote unity amid this turmoil inspired countless followers. - The Pompeii Volcanic Eruption (79 AD): A catastrophic volcanic eruption engulfed the Roman city
of Pompeii, preserving it in ash for centuries to come. Although this event might not be directly linked to St.
Barnabas’ life, it serves as a testament to the unpredictable forces of nature during that time. - The Apostle Paul’s Journeys (45-64 AD): St. Barnabas is most prominently known for his close
association with the Apostle Paul, who went on several missionary journeys to spread the Christian message
across the Roman Empire and beyond. Together, they braved challenges, encountered diverse cultures, and
championed unity in the face of opposition.
His patronage:
- Patron Saint of Cyprus: St. Barnabas holds a special place in the heart of Cypriots, who
cherish him as one of their earliest and most revered Christian figures. - Peacemakers and Reconciliation: St. Barnabas’ tireless efforts to promote unity and
reconciliation make him a powerful intercessor for those seeking peace in their lives and communities. - Mental Health Advocates: The burden of mental health struggles is a significant concern in
modern society. St. Barnabas’ patronage extends to those facing emotional and psychological challenges,
offering them hope and strength. - Musicians and Performers: St. Barnabas’ life was a harmonious symphony of faith and compassion.
As a result, he is regarded as a patron for musicians and performers, inspiring them to use their talents for
the greater good.
St. Barnabas’ legacy continues to inspire people from all walks of life to build bridges of understanding, embrace
diversity, and stand steadfast in times of adversity. His commitment to unity and unwavering faith makes him an
enduring symbol of hope and compassion for generations to come.
The Generous Giver
History pays great tribute to the people who had offered outstanding contributions to humanity. However, it is very often that the supporting persons, those “behind the scenes”, who enabled their greatness are given recognition. But the Church recognizes and values the importance of these “hidden” people who had played important roles for the proclamation of the Gospel.
St. Barnabas was an important key agent in the early Church. He was directly responsible for integrating Paul into the faith after his conversion. He was a Jew, particularly of the Levite lineage, and was a native of Cyprus (see Acts 4:36). Having settled in Jerusalem, Barnabas was one of the first who believed in Christ and embraced the Christian faith after Jesus’ Resurrection. The first instance that Barnabas’ name was mentioned in the New Testament can be found in Acts 4:36-37 where he sold his property which he owned and gave the money to the Apostles for the needs of the Church.
The Bridge-Maker
After Paul’s conversion to the faith, he was so zealous and eager to preach the Good News. However, the community in Jerusalem doubted and still feared the former persecutor. It was Barnabas who vouched for the sincerity of Paul’s conversion: “Then Barnabas took charge of him [Paul] and brought him to the apostles, and he reported to them how on the way he had seen the Lord and that he had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had spoken out boldly in the name of Jesus.” (Acts 9:27).
Later on, he was sent to Antioch in Syria, but went on to look for and meet Paul in Tarsus where he had withdrawn. He spent a whole year with him there and dedicated himself to the evangelization of that city where Barnabas was known as a teacher and prophet (see Acts 13:1). Seeing the first conversions of the Gentiles to the faith, Barnabas realized that Paul’s hour had come. He restored Paul to the Church who would later on become the Apostle to the Gentiles.
A Missionary with Paul
Barnabas and Paul were sent by the Church of Antioch on a mission. This became known as the first missionary journey of Paul. In fact, it was Barnabas’ missionary voyage since it was he who was really in charge of the mission and Paul had joined him as his collaborator. Together, they visited the regions of Cyprus and Central and Southern Anatolia, with the cities of Attalia, Perga, Antioch of Pisidia, Iconium, Lystra and Derbe (see Acts 13-14).
After this, Barnabas and Paul went to the so-called Council of Jerusalem. It was there that the Apostles and the Elders decided to discontinue the practice of circumcision as no longer a component of the Christian identity (see Acts 15:1-35). Through this, they officially made possible the Church of the Gentiles, without the burden of the Jewish customs and laws.
At the beginning of the second missionary journey, Paul and Barnabas had a disagreement. Barnabas was determined to take with them as a companion John who was also called Mark, while Paul was against it. This was because the young man had left them during their previous journey. The Acts of the Apostles recounts the aftermath of this issue between the two: “So sharp was their disagreement that they separated. Barnabas took Mark and sailed to Cyprus. But Paul chose Silas and departed after being commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord.” (Acts 15:39-40).
Barnabas, together with John Mark, returned to Cyprus in about the year 49. From that moment, the Scriptures lost track of him. It was only through the Epistles of Paul that Barnabas’ name was mentioned again. Nothing is known for certain about the circumstances or date of his death. A 5th century apocryphal writing, Journeys and Martyrdom of Barnabas, described the alleged martyrdom and burial of Barnabas in Cyprus. Discovered in 488, the reputed tomb of Barnabas was found near the Monastery of St. Barnabas in the city of Salamis in Cyprus, the community founded by Paul and Barnabas. His feast day is June 11.
5 Interesting Facts About St. Barnabas
- St. Barnabas is the patron saint of Cyprus, Antioch, against hailstorms and invoked as peacemaker.
- “Barnabas” was just his nickname. His real name was Joseph as recorded in Acts 4:36.
- The nickname “Barnabas” means “son of encouragement”.
- St. Barnabas was a cousin of St. Mark the Evangelist.
- The Christian writer Tertullian attributed to St. Barnabas the Letter to the Hebrews. The Letter to the Hebrews interpreted the priesthood of Jesus in an extraordinary way. Barnabas belonged to the priestly tribe of Levi, and he may have been interested in the subject of the priesthood, so this was not improbable.
Prayer to St. Barnabas
O God, who decreed that Saint Barnabas,a man filled with faith and the Holy Spirit,should be set apart to convert the nations,grant that the Gospel of Christ,which he strenuously preached,may be faithfully proclaimed by word and by deed.Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
