(d.c.61) He was named Joseph when first mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles, but called Barnabas, which means “son of encouragement” (Acts 4:36). Barnabas was not one of the chosen Twelve but is considered an Apostle (Acts 13:2-3) and was the cousin of Saint Mark, who wrote the Gospel by that name (Colossians 4:10). He vouched for Saint Paul, who had previously persecuted the Christians, to the Apostles in Jerusalem (Acts 9:27) and they became regular travelling companions in missionary journeys, along with Saint Mark. He is said to have been martyred, possibly stoned to death, in 61 or 62 AD, either in Cyprus or Salamis.

Sometimes Paul and Barnabas met with angry mobs. Sometimes they passionately disagreed among themselves, yet sought forgiveness and collaboration. Fellowship might not always be comfortable, but isolation is an enemy of recovery. How are you building on the work of your predecessors and fostering community?

“We proclaim to you good news that you should turn from these idols to the living God, ‘who made heaven and earth and sea and all that is in them’” (Paul and Barnabas, Acts 14:15).

Reflection by Brad Farmer