Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden
Find wisdom to carry you through all of life's deserts with this weekly podcast from Exodus 90. Led by Bishop Varden, a Cistercian monk and the Bishop of Trondheim in Norway, each episode offers timeless insights from the Desert Fathers for our growth in self-knowledge, charity, and holiness. Bishop Varden directs us to what we need most today: the love of Christ that conquers all obstacles. Learn more at: http://hallow.com/dfiy
69 sessions
1Episode 44: To Gain a BrotherWhen 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
Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden13 min
2Detraction 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.
Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden: Ep. 4312 min
3Scope of JudgementIn 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.
Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden: Ep. 4212 min
4Rejection 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.
Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden: Ep. 4113 min
5Episode 45: Legitimate RestIn this episode of Desert Fathers, Bishop Erik Varden articulates the importance that rest plays in our lives—particularly our spiritual lives. He discusses the monastic idea of "holy leisure," also called "recreation," and the differences between leisure and idleness. Bishop Varden reminds us that to be Christian, we must allow ourselves to constantly be "re-created" by God, which requires that we slow down and spend time in rest and leisure from time to time.
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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!
________
Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden13 min
6Q&A With Bishop VardenIn this Q&A session with Bishop Erik Varden, Jamie Baxter and Bishop Varden explore:
• The nature of love and self-forgetfulness
• Philosophical perspectives on progress
• The relevance of Stoicism
• The implications of artificial intelligence
• The importance of maintaining joy in celebratory seasons
Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden: Ep. 4071 min
7A Low Profilen 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.
Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden: Ep. 3913 min
8Professions of HumilityIn 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.
Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden: Ep. 3813 min
9At the Baker'sIn 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.
Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden: Ep. 3711 min
10A FallIn 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.
Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden: Ep. 3613 min
11On Hunting DogsIn 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.
Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden: Ep. 3513 min
12Living with InfirmityIn 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.
Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden: Ep. 3413 min
13Xeniteia 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.
Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden: Ep. 3312 min
14PhilosophyIn 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.
Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden: Ep. 3212 min
15GoldIn 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.
Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden: Ep. 3112 min
16Foresight & ProvidenceIn 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.
Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden: Ep. 3014 min
17Lovely BooksIn this episode of Desert Fathers, Bishop Eric 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.
Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden: Ep. 2912 min
18Lacerated BodyJoin Bishop Erik Varden, a Trappist monk and Bishop of Trondheim, Norway, in this episode of Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden, where he unpacks the timeless wisdom of the Desert Fathers through the lens of Abba Antony’s striking lesson. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden: Ep. 2814 min
19Q&A with Bishop VardenIn this special Q&A episode of Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden, host Jamie Baxter welcomes Bishop Varden to answer listener questions, offering profound insights from the Desert Fathers’ wisdom. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden: Ep. 2749 min
20SympathyWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 2612 min
21The Source of StrengthWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 2512 min
22Discussion: Three ApproachesJamie, Doyle, Adam, and Jared from the team at Exodus 90 meet to discuss Bishop Varden's reflection. The group will host a Roundtable Discussion each week of 2025. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Bonus Roundtable on Ep. 2443 min
23On Discernment: Three ApproachesWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 2412 min
24Discussion: LustJamie, Doyle, Adam, and Jared from the team at Exodus 90 meet to discuss Bishop Varden's reflection. The group will host a Roundtable Discussion each week of 2025. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Bonus Roundtable on Ep. 2340 min
25LustWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 2313 min
26Discussion: Austerity at HomeJamie, Doyle, Adam, and Jared from the team at Exodus 90 meet to discuss Bishop Varden's reflection. The group will host a Roundtable Discussion each week of 2025. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Bonus Roundtable on Ep. 2237 min
27Austerity at Home, Charity AbroadWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 2211 min
28Discussion: Necessary WordsJamie, Doyle, Adam, and Jared from the team at Exodus 90 meet to discuss Bishop Varden's reflection. The group will host a Roundtable Discussion each week of 2025. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Bonus Roundtable on Ep. 2133 min
29Necessary WordsWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 2112 min
30Discussion: Words that WoundJamie, Doyle, Adam, and Jared from the team at Exodus 90 meet to discuss Bishop Varden's reflection. The group will host a Roundtable Discussion each week of 2025. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Bonus Roundtable on Ep. 2043 min
31Words that WoundWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 2011 min
32Discussion: Donkey on the LooseJamie, Doyle, Adam, and Jared from the team at Exodus 90 meet to discuss Bishop Varden's reflection. The group will host a Roundtable Discussion each week of 2025. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Bonus Roundtable on Ep. 1936 min
33Donkey on the LooseWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 1912 min
34Q&A - Ask Bishop VardenIn this special episode of Desert Fathers in a Year, we mark the one-third milestone of our series with a listener Q&A featuring Bishop Erik Varden.
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 1865 min
35Discussion: The Fear of GodJamie, Doyle, Adam, and Jared from the team at Exodus 90 meet to discuss Bishop Varden's reflection. The group will host a Roundtable Discussion each week of 2025. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Bonus Roundtable on Ep. 1739 min
36The Fear of GodWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 1713 min
37Discussion: The Monk and the ActressJamie, Doyle, Adam, and Jared from the team at Exodus 90 meet to discuss Bishop Varden's reflection. The group will host a Roundtable Discussion each week of 2025. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Bonus Roundtable on Ep. 1639 min
38The Monk and the ActressWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 1612 min
39Discussion: PenthosJamie, Doyle, Adam, and Jared from the team at Exodus 90 meet to discuss Bishop Varden's reflection. The group will host a Roundtable Discussion each week of 2025. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Bonus Roundtable on Ep. 1543 min
40PenthosWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 1512 min
41Discussion: CompunctionJamie, Doyle, Adam, and Jared from the team at Exodus 90 meet to discuss Bishop Varden's reflection. The group will host a Roundtable Discussion each week of 2025. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Bonus Roundtable on Ep. 1441 min
42CompunctionWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 1412 min
43Discussion: Silence in GriefJamie, Doyle, Adam, and Jared from the team at Exodus 90 meet to discuss Bishop Varden's reflection. The group will host a Roundtable Discussion each week of 2025. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Bonus Roundtable on Ep. 1338 min
44Silence in GriefWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 1311 min
45Discussion: Staying PutJamie, Doyle, Adam, and Jared from the team at Exodus 90 meet to discuss Bishop Varden's reflection. The group will host a Roundtable Discussion each week of 2025. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Bonus Roundtable on Ep. 1245 min
46Staying PutWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 1213 min
47Discussion: Flee, and Be SavedJamie, Doyle, Adam, and Jared from the team at Exodus 90 meet to discuss Bishop Varden's reflection. The group will host a Roundtable Discussion each week of 2025. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Bonus Roundtable on Ep. 1140 min
48Flee, and Be SavedWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 1114 min
49Discussion: PeaceJamie, Doyle, Adam, and Jared from the team at Exodus 90 meet to discuss Bishop Varden's reflection. The group will host a Roundtable Discussion each week of 2025. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Bonus Roundtable on Ep. 1041 min
50PeaceWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 1013 min
51Discussion: Singing with the AngelsJamie, Doyle, Adam, and Jared from the team at Exodus 90 meet to discuss Bishop Varden's reflection. The group will host a Roundtable Discussion each week of 2025. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Bonus Roundtable on Ep. 955 min
52Singing with the AngelsWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 913 min
53Discussion: What Defines a ChristianJamie, Doyle, Adam, and Jared from the team at Exodus 90 meet to discuss Bishop Varden's reflection. The group will host a Roundtable Discussion each week of 2025. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Bonus Roundtable on Ep. 848 min
54What Defines a ChristianWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 813 min
55Discussion: Take Up Your CrossJamie, Doyle, Adam, and Jared from the team at Exodus 90 meet to discuss Bishop Varden's reflection. The group will host a Roundtable Discussion each week of 2025. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Bonus Roundtable on Ep. 747 min
56Take Up Your CrossWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 713 min
57Discussion: Pursuit of PerfectionJamie, Doyle, Adam, and Jared from the team at Exodus 90 meet to discuss Bishop Varden's reflection. The group will host a Roundtable Discussion each week of 2025. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Bonus Roundtable on Ep. 642 min
58Pursuit of PerfectionWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 612 min
59Q&A with Bishop VardenWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. This week, we take a short break from the usual weekly format to hear directly from Jamie and Bishop Varden in dialogue on questions that have been submitted from listeners. hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 554 min
60Discussion: A Strength to OthersJamie, Doyle, Adam, and Jared from the team at Exodus 90 meet to discuss Bishop Varden's reflection on the fruitfulness of Antony's solitude. The group will host a Roundtable Discussion each week of 2025. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Bonus Roundtable on Ep. 451 min
61Antony - A Strength to OthersWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. In today's passage from Athanasius's Life of Antony, Bishop Varden reflects on an encounter Antony had with a monk who often came to visit him. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 412 min
62Discussion: Become Who You AreJamie, Doyle, Adam, and Jared from the team at Exodus 90 meet to discuss Bishop Varden's second reflection on the effects that Antony's asceticism had on his life and nature. The group will host a Roundtable Discussion each week of 2025. Learn more at: DesertFathers.com
Bonus Roundtable on Ep. 356 min
63Become Who You AreWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. In today's passage from Athanasius's Life of Antony, Bishop Varden reflects on the effect that asceticism and prayer can have on us. Far from distorting our nature, holiness makes us wholly who God created us to be. Through his Incarnation, God became a human being so that we may become like God. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 312 min
64Discussion: Antony's TemptationJamie, Doyle, Adam, and Jared from the team at Exodus 90 meet to discuss Bishop Varden's second reflection on Antony's temptations. Temptation will come for each of us, at one time or another, and we must respond with courage. The group will host a Roundtable Discussion each week of 2025. Learn more at: http://hallow.com/dfiy
Bonus Roundtable on Ep. 254 min
65Facing Antony's TemptationsWelcome back to Desert Fathers in a Year. Today, Bishop Varden reads a short passage from Athanasius's Life of Antony and reflects on the nature of the devil and his means of temptation. Like St. Antony, we will face temptation as we seek to grow and improve. Let us take courage and respond with hope. Learn more at: hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 213 min
66Discussion: The Life of AntonyJamie, Doyle, Adam, and Jared from the team at Exodus 90 meet to discuss Bishop Varden's first reflection and what practical takeaways we can glean from it and apply to our lives. The group will host a Roundtable Discussion each week of 2025. Learn more at: http://hallow.com/dfiy
Bonus Roundtable on Ep. 161 min
67Changed by the Life of AntonyWelcome to Desert Fathers in a Year! Today, Bishop Varden reads a short passage from Augustine’s Confessions and offers a reflection on the life of Antony. The first four episodes of DFIY were filmed at the Cistercian abbey of Nový Dvůr in Czechia two hours from Prague. Learn more at: http://hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year: Ep. 113 min
68Introducing DFIYWelcome to Desert Fathers in a Year by Bishop Erik Varden and Exodus 90. Listen to the introduction of this new weekly podcast, which can become a deep source of spiritual renewal. The first episode launches January 1, 2025. Learn more at: http://hallow.com/dfiy
Desert Fathers in a Year8 min