The Legacy of Joseph Barnabas in Cyprus

The Church of Saints Barnabas and Hilarion at Peristerona

Sometimes I know just enough about something to be dangerous. I am so focused on learning about Joseph Barnabas that I neglect to remember that there are other saints named Barnabas. The Church of Saints Barnabas and Hilarion described in my previous post has nothing to do with the apostle Barnabas. As it turns out, these two men were soldiers in the Byzantine Empire and lived in what today is Turkey. They gave up soldiering and became holy men.

I knew that the icons of Barnabas in that church looked different, and I was trying to figure out why he was not depicted as he normally is. Now, to my embarrassment, I know the reason. Different Barnabas.

Last night we attended a concert held very near The Church of Saints Barnabas and Hilarion in Peristerona. Five music teachers performed traditional eastern Mediterranean music. Lynne and I had a great time being in the midst of those who came to hear the songs. One man asked if we represented an embassy. When he learned that I am doing research on Barnabas, he said that I must meet the Bishop of the Morphou region—who attended the concert. During intermission, he took me to the bishop, who turns out to be a very tall and gracious man. We will visit him at his office next week and ask questions about Barnabas.

I also have an appointment to meet the archbishop of Cyprus and two other bishops. So I will soon be able to interview these men, who will probably arrange for me to meet with other clergy and monastics. Things are beginning to come together. Now, if I can just be more careful about identifying saints.