*ST BARNABAS* *Apostle* *June 11* _Barnabas is a Hebrew male name which means *Son of Consolation or Son of Exhortation or Son of Comfort*_ Though he was not one of the Twelve, St Barnabas is considered an Apostles by the Church. He was a Jew from the tribe of Levi, but born in Cyprus. He was closely associated with St Paul and it was he who introduced Paul to Peter and the other Apostles. When a Christian community began at Antioch, Barnabas was sent as official representative of the Mother Church of Jerusalem to unite it's members in the fold of Christ. He and Paul gave instructions to the Christians in Antioch for a whole year. Later, Paul and Barnabas were sent by Antioch officials to preach to the Gentiles. Great success crowned their efforts but all was not peaceful. They were expelled or sacked from some towns. Later, Barnabas took Mark to Cyprus separately while Paul took Silas to Syria. Barnabas is spoken of simply as one who dedicated his life to the Lord. He was a man filled with the Holy Spirit and faith, through whom large numbers were added to the Lord's followers. Barnabas died a martyr at Cyprus during Emperor Nero's reign with the Gospel of St Matthew, written with St Matthew's own hands, on his chest. May God the Holy Spirit help us to evangelise without fear just like St Barnabas did. Amen 🙏🏾 St Barnabas, pray for us, Amen. Happy feast day to all Barnabas. _Roncallli_