St. Barnabas, Apostle

St. Barnabas was one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus and a companion of St. Paul. He was born in Cyprus and is believed to have died around 61 AD. Barnabas was a Levite and a wealthy landowner who sold his property to support the early Christian community in Jerusalem. He played a key role in the acceptance of Gentile converts to Christianity and accompanied Paul on his first missionary journey. Barnabas is venerated for his unwavering faith, generosity, and role in the growth of the early Church. He is the patron saint of Cyprus, wanderers, and the island of Malta.