The Legacy of Joseph Barnabas in Cyprus

Front of the Church of St. Chrysaliniotissa in Nicosia

This morning we anticipated meeting Father Gabriel, an 88-year old monk who heads the Barnabas Foundation. Dialoging with this man was going to be a highlight of the month. Two new friends were to drive up from Limassol, pick us up about 10:00, take us to Gabriel’s office and translate for us. A great plan.

About 9:00, our cell phone rang. “I am sorry, Michael, but we will have to postpone our meeting with Father Gabriel. He was taken to the hospital this morning.” When I expressed concern and asked what was wrong, my friend said, “Well, he is old.” I suppose it was inappropriate, but I was so taken by surprise that I could not help laughing.

So I spent all day in the library at CAARI translating ancient Greek texts that mention Barnabas. I started this project last week and have worked through 200 of them—which seems like a good accomplishment. The problem is that the computer database I am using generated 740 references in texts from the first through the 15^th century. Oh, my aching back and head.

I am into the forth century now, and one thing is clear. Only a few texts so far have much relevance for my project. The dreadful thing about research is all the drudgery one goes through to discover material important for one’s work. Perhaps another trip to the beach would clear my mind and make me more productive. Maybe next week.