Saint Barnabas (d. c. 61) is an important figure in the New Testament, a companion of Saint Paul. Of Jewish origin and originally from Cyprus, he was one of the first Christians to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles. It was he who introduced Paul to the apostles after his conversion. Together, they carried out several evangelistic missions. Barnabas is known for his gentleness, his faith, and his spirit of reconciliation. He is considered an apostle, although he was not one of the Twelve, and tradition venerates him as the founder of the Church of Cyprus.
