Bishop Varden's Retreat Guides Pope Francis Through Truth and Healing
Bishop Erik Varden of Trondheim, a Trappist monk, recently led a four-day papal retreat in Rome. From February 24 to 27, 2026, he guided Pope Francis and cardinals through reflections rooted in contemplative wisdom. His talks drew on saints, scripture, and the urgent questions facing the Church today.
After the retreat, the Pope scheduled a public Angelus prayer for February 28 and a general audience on March 1, 2026.
Bishop Varden began by addressing a pressing modern question: 'What is truth?' He warned that the Church must not ignore this search for meaning. Instead, it should respond with clarity and depth, speaking in its own distinct voice to remain fresh and original.
His reflections wove together teachings from St. Bernard of Clairvaux, the 12th-century abbot, and St. John Henry Newman, who described the priest's ministry as 'angelic'—a theme Varden expanded upon. He spoke of 'angelic encounters' and the 'hidden glory' visible in daily life before the fullness of heaven.
On Christian freedom, he stressed it was not about domination but 'loving the world with a crucified love.' This message contrasted sharply with his sober words on clerical sexual abuse, which he called more damaging to the Church than any external opposition.
The retreat concluded on February 27 with a meditation titled 'Communicating Hope,' tying together themes of truth, suffering, and renewal for the Church's leaders.
The retreat's discussions will likely influence the Pope's upcoming public appearances. Bishop Varden's emphasis on truth, contemplation, and healing comes at a time when the Church faces both internal and external challenges. His call for authentic communication and cruciform love sets a tone for the months ahead.
