Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden
Exodus 90
Modern life is like a desert—a parched and barren expanse where the soul thirsts for the living water Jesus promised at the well. Amid the ceaseless distractions and allurements of materialism, God can seem absent. As the Desert Fathers of old fled the noise of the world to seek God in silence, we too have been been called into the desert.
Guided by Bishop Erik Varden, this year-long series—beginning January 1, 2025—invites listeners to encounter the profound wisdom of the Desert Fathers. Drawing from their timeless Sayings, Bishop Varden illuminates the lives of figures like St. Anthony of Egypt, exploring themes such as purity, humility, self-mastery, and repentance. Through their struggles in the wilderness, these early Christians uncovered the transformative power of God’s grace—lessons as relevant today as they were in their time.
Though few of us are called to the monastic life, the spiritual combat of the Desert Fathers resonates with all who seek to follow Christ. As Jesus Himself entered the desert to confront temptation, their wisdom offers guidance for our own battles with distraction and despair, helping us find strength in prayer and discipline.
Bishop Erik Varden, a Cistercian monk and Bishop of Trondheim, Norway, is one of today’s leading Catholic voices. A convert to Catholicism during his studies at Cambridge, he was drawn to the monastic life, ultimately joining Mount St. Bernard Abbey in England, where he eventually became abbot. Through his writing and teaching, Bishop Varden speaks compellingly to a secular world, using the language of beauty to reveal the centrality of our search for God—even when we wander astray.
Join us as we step into the desert together, guided by the wisdom of the ancients, to rediscover the love of Christ that conquers all obstacles. Visit DesertFathers.com to learn more.
We owe a special thanks to our partners. The Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden...
...written by Bishop Erik Varden. You can follow Bishop Varden on his blog, CoramFratribus.com
...produced by EWTN Global Catholic Network
...and brought to you by Exodus 90. Download the Exodus 90 app today and experience uncommon freedom in Jesus Christ with men from around the world.
Guided by Bishop Erik Varden, this year-long series—beginning January 1, 2025—invites listeners to encounter the profound wisdom of the Desert Fathers. Drawing from their timeless Sayings, Bishop Varden illuminates the lives of figures like St. Anthony of Egypt, exploring themes such as purity, humility, self-mastery, and repentance. Through their struggles in the wilderness, these early Christians uncovered the transformative power of God’s grace—lessons as relevant today as they were in their time.
Though few of us are called to the monastic life, the spiritual combat of the Desert Fathers resonates with all who seek to follow Christ. As Jesus Himself entered the desert to confront temptation, their wisdom offers guidance for our own battles with distraction and despair, helping us find strength in prayer and discipline.
Bishop Erik Varden, a Cistercian monk and Bishop of Trondheim, Norway, is one of today’s leading Catholic voices. A convert to Catholicism during his studies at Cambridge, he was drawn to the monastic life, ultimately joining Mount St. Bernard Abbey in England, where he eventually became abbot. Through his writing and teaching, Bishop Varden speaks compellingly to a secular world, using the language of beauty to reveal the centrality of our search for God—even when we wander astray.
Join us as we step into the desert together, guided by the wisdom of the ancients, to rediscover the love of Christ that conquers all obstacles. Visit DesertFathers.com to learn more.
We owe a special thanks to our partners. The Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden...
...written by Bishop Erik Varden. You can follow Bishop Varden on his blog, CoramFratribus.com
...produced by EWTN Global Catholic Network
...and brought to you by Exodus 90. Download the Exodus 90 app today and experience uncommon freedom in Jesus Christ with men from around the world.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 16, 2025 • 13min
Episode 38: Professions of Humility
In this episode of Desert Fathers, Bishop Erik Varden explores the themes of humility and vainglory through the teachings of Abba Serapion. He discusses the importance of aligning one's words with actions and the dangers of pride masked as humility. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-reflection and integrity in spiritual growth, encouraging listeners to practice humility in their daily lives.__________This January, take up the example of the Fathers and embrace a life of prayer, asceticism, and fraternity. Leave behind the pharaohs and idols that keep you enslaved and take up the journey to the promised land. Join tens of thousands of men from all around the world for the Exodus 90 Challenge. We start January 5th, 2026. Download the Exodus 90 app or visit Exodus90.com to learn moreVisit Desertfathers.com to join our email newsletter for updates and reflections.__________We owe a special thanks to our partners. Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden is...• 🦉...written by Bishop Erik Varden. You can follow Bishop Varden on his blog, coramfratribus.com.• 🎥 ...produced by EWTN• 🧡...and brought to you by Exodus 90, download the Exodus 90 app today at download.exodus90.com________Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Desert Fathers and Vainglory01:42 The Story of Abba Serapion and Humility09:08 Reflections on Authority and IntegrityTags:Desert Fathers, humility, vainglory, Abba Serapion, authority, integrity, self-reflection, spiritual growth, monastic life, Christian teachings
Sep 9, 2025 • 11min
Episode 37: At the Baker's
In this episode of Desert Fathers, Bishop Erik Varden explores the teachings of the Desert Fathers, focusing on the themes of humility, the dangers of vanity, and the importance of genuine spiritual practices. Bishop Varden discusses a saying from Abba Theodore, emphasizing that true light comes from God and that self-exaltation can undermine our spiritual efforts. __________This January, take up the example of the Fathers and embrace a life of prayer, asceticism, and fraternity. Leave behind the pharaohs and idols that keep you enslaved and take up the journey to the promised land. Join tens of thousands of men from all around the world for the Exodus 90 Challenge. We start January 5th, 2026. Download the Exodus 90 app or visit Exodus90.com to learn moreVisit Desertfathers.com to join our email newsletter for updates and reflections.__________We owe a special thanks to our partners. Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden is...• 🦉...written by Bishop Erik Varden. You can follow Bishop Varden on his blog, coramfratribus.com.• 🎥 ...produced by EWTN• 🧡...and brought to you by Exodus 90, download the Exodus 90 app today_________Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Desert Fathers' Wisdom01:23 The Importance of Humility in Spiritual Practices08:04 The Dangers of Vanity and Self-ExaltationTags:Desert Fathers, Bishop Erik Varden, humility, vanity, spiritual life, fasting, grace, self-exaltation, wisdom, prayer
Sep 3, 2025 • 13min
Episode 36: A Fall
In this episode of Desert Fathers, Bishop Erik Varden reflects on the teachings of the Desert Fathers, particularly focusing on the importance of humility and the dangers of pride. Through the story of a young monk who performed a miraculous act but later fell into sin, the discussion emphasizes the need for genuine repentance and the understanding that no one is beyond temptation. The episode encourages listeners to reflect on their own spiritual journeys and the significance of authentic faith.__________This January, take up the example of the Fathers and embrace a life of prayer, asceticism, and fraternity. Leave behind the pharaohs and idols that keep you enslaved and take up the journey to the promised land. Join tens of thousands of men from all around the world for the Exodus 90 Challenge. We start January 5th, 2026. Download the Exodus 90 app or visit Exodus90.com to learn moreVisit Desertfathers.com to join our email newsletter for updates and reflections.__________We owe a special thanks to our partners. Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden is...• 🦉...written by Bishop Erik Varden. You can follow Bishop Varden on his blog, coramfratribus.com.• 🎥 ...produced by EWTN• 🧡...and brought to you by Exodus 90, download the Exodus 90 app today_________Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Desert Fathers' Wisdom02:06 The Story of the Young Monk and His Fall09:03 Reflections on Repentance and GraceTags:Desert Fathers, Bishop Erik Varden, spiritual wisdom, repentance, humility, Abba Antony, Christian teachings, monastic life, spiritual growth, humility in faith
Aug 26, 2025 • 13min
Episode 35: On Hunting Dogs
In this episode of Desert Fathers, Bishop Erik Varden explores the theme of fortitude through the lens of monastic life, using the analogy of a hound pursuing a hare to illustrate the importance of unwavering focus on Christ amidst distractions and scandals. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by monks and the necessity of maintaining a deep, personal relationship with Christ to persevere in faith.__________This January, take up the example of the Fathers and embrace a life of prayer, asceticism, and fraternity. Leave behind the pharaohs and idols that keep you enslaved and take up the journey to the promised land. Join tens of thousands of men from all around the world for the Exodus 90 Challenge. We start January 5th, 2026. Download the Exodus 90 app or visit Exodus90.com to learn moreVisit Desertfathers.com to join our email newsletter for updates and reflections.__________We owe a special thanks to our partners. Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden is...• 🦉...written by Bishop Erik Varden. You can follow Bishop Varden on his blog, coramfratribus.com.• 🎥 ...produced by EWTN• 🧡...and brought to you by Exodus 90, download the Exodus 90 app today_________Chapters00:00 Introduction to Desert Fathers and Fortitude01:40 The Pursuit of Christ: A Monastic Analogy09:16 Overcoming Scandal Through Focus on the CrossTags:Desert Fathers, fortitude, monastic life, Bishop Erik Varden, spiritual growth, overcoming scandal, Christ, perseverance, asceticism, prayer
Aug 19, 2025 • 13min
Episode 34: Living with Infirmity
In this episode of Desert Fathers, Bishop Erik Varden and Jamie Baxter explore the theme of fortitude in the face of suffering, particularly through the lens of illness. They reflect on the teachings of Amma Syncletica, emphasizing the importance of embracing our struggles as opportunities for spiritual growth and grace. The conversation highlights the transformative power of faith and the belief that all experiences, even painful ones, can lead to greater good.__________This January, take up the example of the Fathers and embrace a life of prayer, asceticism, and fraternity. Leave behind the pharaohs and idols that keep you enslaved and take up the journey to the promised land. Join tens of thousands of men from all around the world for the Exodus 90 Challenge. We start January 5th, 2026. Download the Exodus 90 app or visit Exodus90.com to learn moreVisit Desertfathers.com to join our email newsletter for updates and reflections.__________We owe a special thanks to our partners. Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden is...• 🦉...written by Bishop Erik Varden. You can follow Bishop Varden on his blog, coramfratribus.com.• 🎥 ...produced by EWTN• 🧡...and brought to you by Exodus 90, download the Exodus 90 app today_________Chapters00:00 Introduction to Fortitude and Suffering01:27 Embracing Illness as a Spiritual Practice03:53 The Life and Wisdom of Amma Syncletica06:56 Finding Grace in Trials and Suffering09:00 Conclusion and Call to ActionTags:fortitude, suffering, illness, spiritual growth, Amma Syncletica, grace, Desert Fathers, asceticism, faith, providence, Bishop Erik Varden
Aug 12, 2025 • 12min
Episode 33: Xeniteia
In this episode of Desert Fathers, Bishop Erik Varden explores the theme of fortitude through the lens of Xeniteia, a call to solitude and trust in God. He discusses the importance of preparing for trials in the pursuit of wisdom and the balance between comfort and challenge in spiritual growth. The conversation emphasizes the need to surrender to God's will in everyday life and the significance of situational wisdom in the teachings of the Desert Fathers.__________Join Saint Michael’s Lent starting August 15 on the Exodus 90 app for a 40-day spiritual devotion. Go to exodus90.com to learn more!Visit Desertfathers.com to join our email newsletter for updates and reflections.__________We owe a special thanks to our partners. Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden is...• 🦉...written by Bishop Erik Varden. You can follow Bishop Varden on his blog, coramfratribus.com.• 🎥 ...produced by EWTN• 🧡...and brought to you by Exodus 90, download the Exodus 90 app today_________Tags:Desert Fathers, fortitude, wisdom, Xeniteia, solitude, spiritual growth, trust in God, Bishop Eric Varden, Christian tradition, discipleship
Aug 5, 2025 • 12min
Episode 32: Philosophy
In this episode, Bishop Erik Varden reflects on the virtue of fortitude as taught by the Desert Fathers, emphasizing the importance of enduring hardship in the pursuit of wisdom. The conversation explores how ancient wisdom can guide modern challenges. The episode concludes with a call to live logically and in alignment with the teachings of Christ, drawing inspiration from the lives of early Christian monks.__________Join Saint Michael’s Lent starting August 15 on the Exodus 90 app for a 40-day spiritual devotion. Go to exodus90.com to learn more!Visit Desertfathers.com to join our email newsletter for updates and reflections.__________We owe a special thanks to our partners. Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden is...• 🦉...written by Bishop Erik Varden. You can follow Bishop Varden on his blog, coramfratribus.com.• 🎥 ...produced by EWTN• 🧡...and brought to you by Exodus 90, download the Exodus 90 app today_________Chapters00:00 Introduction to Fortitude and the Desert Fathers01:56 Philosophy and Hardship in Pursuit of Wisdom09:22 Enduring Hardship and Living Logically-------------Tags: Desert Fathers, Bishop Erik Varden, fortitude, philosophy, wisdom, hardship, trials, St. Gregory, Christian life, perseverance, spiritual growth
Jul 29, 2025 • 12min
Episode 31: Gold
In this episode of Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden, Bishop Varden explores the teachings of the Desert Fathers on the theme of possessing nothing, emphasizing the dangers of materialism and the importance of generosity. Bishop Varden delves into the complexities of need and the spiritual challenges posed by wealth, illustrated through a parable about a wealthy donor and the monks of Scetis. The episode concludes with reflections on humility and the true purpose of giving.________Join Saint Michael’s Lent starting August 15 on the Exodus 90 app for a 40-day spiritual devotion. Go to exodus90.com to learn more!Visit Desertfathers.com to join our email newsletter for updates and reflections.________We owe a special thanks to our partners. Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden is...• 🦉...written by Bishop Erik Varden. You can follow Bishop Varden on his blog, coramfratribus.com.• 🎥 ...produced by EWTN• 🧡...and brought to you by Exodus 90, download the Exodus 90 app today_________Chapters00:00 Possessing Nothing: The Teachings of the Desert Fathers01:48 The Challenge of Generosity and Need08:44 Reflections on Wealth and Humility_________Tags: Desert Fathers, Bishop Erik Varden, trust, providence, possessions, spiritual growth, Christian life, almsgiving, discernment, work ethics
Jul 22, 2025 • 14min
Episode 30: Foresight and Providence
In this episode of Desert Fathers, Bishop Erik Varden explores the theme of possession and trust through the story of a gardener who learns the importance of relying on God rather than hoarding wealth. The conversation delves into the nature of work, discernment, and the spiritual implications of our choices regarding possessions. Bishop Varden explains how the gardener's journey from hoarding to repentance illustrates the transformative power of faith and the call to live in community and trust in divine providence.________Join Saint Michael’s Lent starting August 15 on the Exodus 90 app for a 40-day spiritual devotion. Go to exodus90.com to learn more!Visit Desertfathers.com to join our email newsletter for updates and reflections.________We owe a special thanks to our partners. Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden is...• 🦉...written by Bishop Erik Varden. You can follow Bishop Varden on his blog, coramfratribus.com.• 🎥 ...produced by EWTN• 🧡...and brought to you by Exodus 90, download the Exodus 90 app today_________Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Desert Fathers and Possession01:26 The Gardener's Tale: Trust and Providence08:39 Lessons from the Gardener's Experience________Tags: Desert Fathers, Bishop Erik Varden, trust, providence, possessions, spiritual growth, Christian life, almsgiving, discernment, work ethics
Jul 15, 2025 • 12min
Episode 29: Lovely Books
In this episode of Desert Fathers, Bishop Erik Varden explores the themes of unity in early Christianity, the significance of books in monastic life, and the balance between possession and purpose in knowledge. Bishop Varden reminds us that even good things can be used in sinful ways.Lovely Books emphasizes the importance of community, the role of literature in spiritual growth, and the call to share one's resources with those in need.________Join Saint Michael’s Lent starting August 15 on the Exodus 90 app for a 40-day spiritual devotion. Go to exodus90.com to learn more!Visit DesertFathers.com to join our email newsletter for updates and reflections.________We owe a special thanks to our partners. Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden is...• 🦉...written by Bishop Erik Varden. You can follow Bishop Varden on his blog, coramfratribus.com.• 🎥 ...produced by EWTN• 🧡...and brought to you by Exodus 90, download the Exodus 90 app today_________Chapters00:00 Unity in Early Christianity01:54 The Value of Books in Monastic Life06:46 Possession vs. Purpose of KnowledgeTags: Desert Fathers, Bishop Erik Varden, early Christianity, monastic life, books, spirituality, possessions, charity, wisdom, teachings
