📖 Short Homily for the Memorial of Saint Barnabas, Apostle

🕊️ Theme: "Son of Encouragement — Called to Build Up the Church"
Readings: Acts 11:21–26; 13:1–3 | Psalm 98:1–6 | Matthew 10:7–13

😂 Introduction 

A young boy once said to his Sunday school teacher, “When I grow up, I want to be just like Saint Barnabas!” The teacher smiled and asked, “Why Barnabas?” The boy replied, “Because everyone likes Barnabas. His name means ‘encouragement,’ and no one ever gets mad at encouragers!” Even children know: the world is hungry for people who build others up.

🔍 The Word of God

Saint Barnabas was not one of the original Twelve Apostles, but he was truly apostolic — sent with power to proclaim the Good News. Acts 11 tells us he was “a good man, filled with the Holy Spirit and with faith.” He brought Saul (Paul) into the community when others were afraid. His presence opened doors, healed suspicions, and built bridges — especially in a Church still learning how to welcome all nations.

In the Gospel, Jesus tells the Apostles: “As you go, proclaim the Good News... you received without payment, give without payment.” That’s exactly what Barnabas did. He didn’t keep encouragement in storage — he gave it freely. He was generous with his life, his words, and his faith.

✝️ Eucharist

In the Eucharist, Christ gives Himself freely and without reservation — just as Barnabas gave his life in mission. At this table, we are reminded that we are not meant to hoard the Good News, but to be encouragers who break the Bread and share the Joy.

❓ Question for Reflection

Am I known as someone who builds others up, like Barnabas?
Who can I affirm, uplift, or accompany this week?

🧾 Daily Practical Application

Write a short message or call someone who’s been struggling. Be a “Barnabas” in their life today. Sometimes a few sincere words — “I see your effort, I believe in you, you are not alone” — can change someone’s day.

🌄 For Those Who Encounter Difficulties

Barnabas worked through conflict and rejection. He reminds us: even encouragers face trials. But he stayed faithful and fruitful. When you're discouraged, remember God still calls you to be a light — not because you’re perfect, but because you carry His hope.

🎉 What Can I Do During the Jubilee Year?

Be a Jubilee Encourager. Visit a lonely parishioner. Invite someone back to Mass. Encourage vocations. Rebuild bridges in your community. Jubilee means joy — and joy is contagious when lived with faith and courage.

🌍 Inspiration – South African Touch

In South Africa, we say, "Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu" — a person is a person through other people. Saint Barnabas lived this spirit. He saw others not as threats but as partners in the Gospel. Let’s be like Barnabas — building others up, not tearing them down.

💬 Inspiration Quote

"Encouragement is oxygen for the soul. Be someone’s next breath of hope." — Anonymous

🙏 Conclusion – Short Prayer

Lord Jesus,
make me an encourager like Barnabas.
Where there is doubt, let me bring faith.
Where there is fear, let me bring peace.
Where there is tiredness, let me bring joy.
Seal my words and works in Your love today.
Amen.