Saint Barnabas, born Joseph, was an early Christian disciple and apostle
of Jesus Christ. He was a respected Levite who, after hearing the
apostles’ testimony in Jerusalem, sold a field he owned and laid the
money down at their feet. Saint Barnabas was a friend to Saint Paul and
brought him to the apostles, when Paul came to Jerusalem and wanted to
redeem his reputation. When successful evangelization of the Gentiles in
Antioch grew, Saint Barnabas was commissioned there, and invited Saint
Paul, where they met with the infant church and instructed them for a
year. Afterwards, he traveled through Asia Minor, now modern day Turkey,
and was a respected advisor, as initial church councils met and decided
how to intermingle these diverse groups into one universal Church.
Saint Barnabas is described by Saint Luke as being an encourager and, “…
a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith” (Acts 4:36, 11:24)

Collect of the Day

Grant, O God, that we may follow
the example of thy faithful servant Barnabas, who, seeking not his own
renown but the well being of thy Church, gave generously of his life and
substance for the relief of the poor and the spread of the Gospel;
through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the
Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.