Jared Stout and Doyle Baxter, both involved with Exodus 90, join the discussion to explore the tenacity of Amma Sarah, the first Desert Mother. They delve into her 13-year struggle against lust, emphasizing reliance on divine strength rather than seeking escape from temptation. The conversation addresses the revolutionary role of the Desert Mothers, urging a return to foundational Christian values. Listeners are encouraged to embrace daily 'little crosses' as transformative opportunities for spiritual growth, highlighting the importance of endurance in the journey of faith.
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Thirteen Years Of Persistent Battle
Amma Sarah endured a 13-year battle with the demon of lust without praying for it to leave.
At the end she declared, "Not I have vanquished you, Christ my Lord has."
insights INSIGHT
Women As Central Witnesses
Desert Mothers were as numerous and authoritative as Desert Fathers, overturning ancient assumptions about gender and holiness.
Their witness shows holiness is available to all, regardless of sex or social status.
insights INSIGHT
Crossless Christianity Is A Spiritual Drift
Modern Christianity often becomes a "crossless" faith that avoids suffering and deep transformation.
Bishop Erik Varden and speakers argue true growth requires embracing temptation and spiritual exercises like fasting.
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In this bonus roundtable for Episode 25 of Desert Fathers in a Year with Bishop Erik Varden, host Jamie Baxter and guests Adam, Doyle, and Jared dive into the powerful story of Amma Sarah, the first Desert Mother featured in the series. For thirteen years, Amma Sarah battled the demon of lust, never praying for the temptation to leave but instead seeking God’s strength. Her witness—“Not I have vanquished you, but Christ, my Lord has”—offers timeless wisdom on embracing crosses for spiritual growth. Join us as we explore how her example challenges modern notions of Christianity and calls us to holiness through trial.
Key Topics Covered:
Amma Sarah’s 13-year battle with lust and her reliance on Christ’s strength
The revolutionary role of Desert Mothers in showcasing holiness for all
Rejecting “crossless Christianity” and embracing temptation as a path to virtue
Practical wisdom: Controlling the controllables to face life’s challenges
The importance of small crosses in daily sanctification
Action Item: Be attentive to the “little crosses” given each hour. Embrace them as opportunities for transformation, seeing each as “a kiss from the Crucified.”
Why Listen?
This episode challenges modern misconceptions of faith, offering Amma Sarah’s example as a call to persevere in spiritual combat. Perfect for those seeking deeper Christian wisdom, spiritual growth, or insights from the Desert Fathers and Mothers.
Get Involved:
Submit questions for our upcoming Q&A with Bishop Varden at desertfathers.com or email hello@desertfathers.com.
Join Saint Michael’s Lent starting August 15 on the Exodus 90 app. Visit exodus90.com to learn more about this powerful devotion led by CFR priests Fr. Innocent and Fr. Angelus Montgomery.
Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden 
