Bishop Erik Varden

Bishop Erik Varden, a Norwegian Catholic bishop and former Trappist monk, shares insights on living a contemplative life amidst the busyness of modern life. He discusses the significance of recognizing Jesus in others and the transformative power of silence and prayer. Delving into the Syriac Fathers, he emphasizes chastity as a path to wholeness and deeper desire. Bishop Varden reflects on his unique journey from monastic life to episcopal ministry while offering practical advice for maintaining spiritual depth in everyday activities.

Bishop Erik Varden, a Cistercian monk and Bishop of Trondheim, shares profound insights from the life of Antony, the Desert Father. He discusses how modern life mirrors a spiritual desert, longing for fulfillment. Listeners explore Antony's struggles and triumphs, emphasizing resilience and community. Varden highlights Antony's transformation through faith and asceticism, illustrating how divine principles foster authenticity. This conversation encourages a deeper relationship with God, drawing wisdom from ancient teachings for today's challenges.

Bishop Erik Varden discusses the true meaning of chastity, debunking misconceptions and emphasizing the importance of honesty and humility in navigating desires. The podcast explores embracing temptations with grace, transforming them into acts of love, and achieving clarity of vision in human interactions. It also touches on identity, vulnerability in sexuality, and offers a prayer for clarity.

Bishop Erik Varden, a Cistercian leader and author on monastic spirituality, joins to share profound insights from the Desert Fathers. They discuss a powerful narrative about two brothers facing temptation in a bustling marketplace, highlighting the struggles with sin and the path to redemption. Varden emphasizes the importance of compassion, as one brother embodies charitable support, taking on the other's burdens. This exploration of solidarity against despair offers wisdom for today's challenges, revealing how communal love can restore hope.

Bishop Erik Varden, a Cistercian monk and the Bishop of Trondheim, discusses his book, "Healing Wounds," exploring the profound vulnerability of God in Christ. He delves into how understanding Christ's wounds fosters compassion for our own and others' suffering. The conversation highlights the paradox of self-improvement culture, emphasizing the essential spiritual connection required for true fulfillment. Varden also speaks on the healing power of community and liturgy, advocating for active participation in faith as a pathway to experiencing Christ's tenderness.