Festival of St. Barnabas, Apostle | June 11
Who is Barnabas?
- Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, received the name Barnabas from the apostles (Acts 4:36-37). He was sent to Antioch to see “the grace of God” among the Hellenists, exhorting “them all to remain faithful to the Lord” (Acts 11:22-24). There, through His Church, the Holy Spirit “set apart… Barnabas and Paul for the work to which [He had] called them” (Acts 13:2). Just as Christ had sent out the 12 to proclaim repentance and cast out demons and heal the sick (Mark 6:7-13), so He now sent Paul and Barnabas to proclaim repentance and healing among the Gentiles.
- Barnabas vouched for Paul to be accepted as an apostle.
- Tradition teaches that he was tortured and stoned to death as a martyr.
Almighty God, Your faithful servant Barnabas sought not his own renown but gave generously of his life and substance for the encouragement of the apostles and their ministry. Grant that we may follow his example in lives given to the Church for the proclamation of the Gospel; through Your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen!
| #4 in Apostle Set | #5 in Martyr Set | #12 in Unashamed Set |
St. Mark Lutheran Church 