TODAY’S GOSPEL READING – 11 JUNE
June 11, 2026
SOLEMNITY OF THE MOST SACRED HEART OF JESUS
June 12, 2026
GENEROUS GIVING TO THE EARLY CHURCH
Barnabas, a Levite from Cyprus, sold a field that he owned and laid the proceeds at the feet of the Apostles to support the growing Christian community.
“Sell your possessions, and give alms. Provide yourselves with purses that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail.”
— Luke 12:33
After embracing the Gospel, Barnabas freely gave the money from his land to help the poor and strengthen the Church in Jerusalem. His example teaches that a heart detached from earthly possessions becomes free to serve God and others with generosity and joy.
THE SON OF ENCOURAGEMENT
The Apostles gave him the name Barnabas, meaning “Son of Encouragement,” because of his gift of strengthening and inspiring others in faith.
“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:11
His kindness, wisdom, and ability to strengthen believers made him a trusted companion of the Apostles. God often reveals a person’s mission through the gifts that bring hope and strength to others.
TRUSTING IN THE CONVERSION OF SAUL
When many Christians were afraid of Saul because of his past persecution of the Church, Barnabas welcomed him and presented him to the Apostles.
“If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.”
— 2 Corinthians 5:17
He courageously defended Saul’s sincerity and helped him gain acceptance within the Christian community. His example reminds us that grace can transform even the hardest heart, and faith sees possibilities where others see only failures.
MISSION TO ANTIOCH
Barnabas was sent to Antioch, where he witnessed the rapid growth of the Church among the Gentiles and rejoiced in God’s work.
“For we are fellow workers for God.”
— 1 Corinthians 3:9
Seeing the grace of God among the new believers, he encouraged them to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast hearts. A mature disciple rejoices whenever God is at work, regardless of where or through whom it happens.
SEEKING OUT SAUL FOR MINISTRY
Recognizing Saul’s gifts, Barnabas traveled to Tarsus to find him and bring him to Antioch to help teach the growing Christian community.
“Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
— Philippians 2:4
He actively sought Saul and invited him into a wider ministry that would later transform the Church. True leaders help others discover and fulfill the calling God has placed upon their lives.
MISSIONARY JOURNEYS FOR CHRIST
Barnabas became one of the Church’s first great missionaries, traveling with Paul to proclaim the Gospel in many regions.
“Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation”
— Mark 16:15
He endured hardships, opposition, and long journeys while preaching Christ throughout Cyprus and Asia Minor. The Gospel flourishes when believers trust God enough to leave behind comfort and embrace His mission.
PARTICIPATION IN THE COUNCIL OF JERUSALEM
Barnabas played an important role in the Council of Jerusalem, helping the Church discern how Gentile converts should be welcomed.
“For it has seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us.”
— Acts 15:28
Along with Paul, he testified to the signs and wonders God had worked among the Gentiles. The Holy Spirit guides the Church through prayer, humility, listening, and faithful discernment.
DEFENDING JOHN MARK
When John Mark had previously withdrawn from missionary work, Barnabas believed he deserved another opportunity.
“Bear with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgive each other.” — Colossians 3:13
He took Mark with him on a later mission journey, helping him grow into a faithful servant of Christ. Mercy often sees future potential where judgment sees only past mistakes.
A LIFETIME OF ENCOURAGEMENT
Throughout his ministry, Barnabas consistently strengthened believers, reconciled differences, and built up the Church.
“Encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:14
Whether supporting Saul, guiding new Christians, or mentoring Mark, he continually lifted others up. Encouragement is a powerful form of charity that can change lives and shape the future of the Church.
HIS FINAL WITNESS TO CHRIST
Ancient Christian tradition remembers Barnabas as a faithful missionary who remained steadfast in preaching Christ until his death.
“Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.” — Revelation 2:10
Tradition holds that he continued evangelizing in Cyprus and eventually suffered martyrdom for the Gospel. His life teaches that the most fruitful lives are often those spent quietly helping others draw closer to God.
PRAYER THROUGH THE INTERCESSION OF SAINT BARNABAS
O faithful Saint Barnabas, Son of Encouragement and devoted servant of Christ, pray for us that we may learn to see others with the eyes of faith.
Teach us to encourage rather than discourage, to trust in the transforming power of God’s grace, and to help others discover the gifts God has placed within them.
Obtain for us generous hearts, a spirit of reconciliation, and the courage to proclaim the Gospel wherever God sends us.
May we, like you, become instruments of hope, encouragement, and unity in the Church and in the world.
Amen.
