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
Oct 28, 2025 • 13min
Episode 44: To Gain a Brother
When a friend or relative has been living in sin, how should we respond? Do we confront him and risk pushing him away? Or do we stay silent and thereby condone the sin?In this episode of Desert Fathers, we find a middle way.An elder discovers a brother living a secret double life. Instead of calling him out, the elder waits patiently. When the right moment comes, the elder offers a small but sincere gesture to the brother—which opens the door to repentance.Fraternal correction seeks to win our brother back, rather than assert we’re right. Bishop Varden unpacks the elder’s example so we too can act with patience, wisdom, and love.__________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 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• 🎥 ...produced by EWTN
Oct 21, 2025 • 12min
Episode 43: Detraction
Bishop Erik Varden explores the theme of detraction and judgment through the lens of a hermit's vision. The conversation covers the consequences of gossip, the importance of conversion, and the efficacy of sacraments, emphasizing that divine grace is not hindered by human flaws.__________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 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• 🎥 ...produced by EWTN• 🧡...and brought to you by Exodus 90. Download the Exodus 90 app today!________Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Desert Fathers and Detraction01:09 The Hermit's Vision and Judgment02:56 The Tragedy of Gossip Among the Consecrated04:30 The Process of Conversion and Clarity06:23 The Efficacy of Sacraments and Divine Grace08:04 Hope and Redemption in the Face of ScandalTags:Desert Fathers, Bishop Varden, detraction, judgment, gossip, conversion, sacraments, grace, redemption, spirituality
Oct 14, 2025 • 12min
Episode 42: Scope of Judgement
In this episode of Desert Fathers, Bishop Erik Varden explores the theme of judgment through the lens of the Desert Fathers' teachings, particularly focusing on the story of Abba Isaac. He discusses the dangers of judging others, the importance of humility, and the potential for personal growth through self-reflection and repentance.__________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 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• 🎥 ...produced by EWTN• 🧡...and brought to you by Exodus 90. Download the Exodus 90 app today!________Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Desert Fathers' Wisdom01:58 The Danger of Judgment02:50 The Lesson from Abba Isaac06:18 The Path to Humility and GraceTags:Desert Fathers, judgment, humility, grace, Abba Isaac, Christian teachings, mercy, self-reflection, spiritual growth, forgiveness, Bishop Varden
Oct 7, 2025 • 13min
Episode 41: Rejection
In this episode of Desert Fathers, Bishop Erik Varden reflects on the teachings of the Desert Fathers, focusing on the themes of forgiveness, community, and the transformative power of God's mercy. Through the story of Abba Anthony, Bishop Varden emphasizes the importance of hope and redemption in the Christian life.__________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, Coram Fratribus• 🎥 ...produced by EWTN• 🧡...and brought to you by Exodus 90. Download the Exodus 90 app today!________Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Desert Fathers' Wisdom02:51 The Story of Abba Anthony and Forgiveness05:33 The Role of Community in Redemption08:10 Hope and Transformation in Christian LifeTags:Desert Fathers, Bishop Eric Varden, forgiveness, community, transformation, mercy, Abba Anthony, Christian teachings, spiritual growth, redemption
Oct 1, 2025 • 1h 11min
Episode 40: Q&A w/ Bishop Varden
In this Q&A session with Bishop Erik Varden, Jamie Baxter and Bishop Varden explore:The nature of love and self-forgetfulnessPhilosophical perspectives on progressThe relevance of Stoicism The implications of artificial intelligenceThe importance of maintaining joy in celebratory seasonsAnd more!__________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• 🎙️ ...edited and supported by Saint Kolbe Studios• 🧡...and brought to you by Exodus 90, download the Exodus 90 app today________Chapters00:00 Introduction and Context of the Q&A Session03:07 The Nature of Love and Self-Forgetfulness09:03 Philosophical Perspectives on Progress and History18:45 Stoicism and Its Relevance to Christian Living21:41 Artificial Intelligence and Wisdom from the Desert Fathers29:19 The Solitary Life and Its Impact on Humanity35:09 Challenges of Prayer and Asceticism44:42 Living Joyfully in Celebratory Seasons49:35 The Discipline of Speech and Communication54:07 Practical Wisdom for Financial Responsibility58:38 Navigating Romantic Relationships and Spiritual Priorities01:07:57 Conclusion and BlessingTags:Desert Fathers, Bishop Erik Varden, Q&A, love, self-knowledge, humility, progress, Stoicism, artificial intelligence, prayer, asceticism, financial responsibility, romantic relationships
Sep 24, 2025 • 13min
Episode 39: A Low Profile
In this episode of Desert Fathers, Bishop Erik Varden explores the theme of humility through the teachings of the Desert Fathers, particularly focusing on Abba Moses and Abba Simon. He discusses how these figures exemplified humility by avoiding fame and recognition, and how Léonie Martin's story parallels this theme. Bishop Varden emphasizes the importance of self-deprecation and the dangers of seeking personal glory in spiritual life.__________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• 🎙️ ...edited and supported by Saint Kolbe Studios• 🧡...and brought to you by Exodus 90, download the Exodus 90 app today________Chapters00:00 Introduction to Desert Fathers and Humility02:42 The Story of Abba Moses and Humility05:20 The Role of Abba Simon in Avoiding Fame07:53 The Example of Léonie Martin and Self-DeprecationTags:Desert Fathers, humility, Abba Moses, Abba Simon, Léonie Martin, self-deprecation, Christian teachings, spiritual growth, authority, simplicity
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• 🎙️ ...edited and supported by Saint Kolbe Studios• 🧡...and brought to you by Exodus 90, download the Exodus 90 app today________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• 🎙️ ...edited and supported by Saint Kolbe Studios• 🧡...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• 🎙️ ...edited and supported by Saint Kolbe Studios• 🧡...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• 🎙️ ...edited and supported by Saint Kolbe Studios• 🧡...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
