Apostle · 1st century
Barnabas
Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy
New Calendar June 11 Old Calendar June 24
Why they are a saint
Barnabas was companion of Paul on the first missionary journey; a Levite of Cyprus, called 'son of encouragement' in Acts. The years given for this life are 1st century. His name is kept with the apostles of the Twelve or of the Seventy. The New Calendar feast is June 11.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Barnabas as a patron when they bear the name Barnabas at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on June 11. Those who share his calling as a missionary also ask his prayers.
Prayer
O holy Barnabas, pray to God for us.
A short general prayer to a saint, not a liturgical text. No public-domain troparion for this saint is included.