VATICAN CITY – Bishop Erik Varden of Trondheim, Norway, delivered the second meditation of the Lenten Spiritual Exercises to Pope Leo XIV, Cardinals and heads of Dicasteries of the Roman Curia on Monday, February 23, 2026, focusing on St. Bernard of Clairvaux and framing him as “Bernard the Idealist.” The exercises, which began Sunday, February 22, and will continue through February 27, are being led by Bishop Varden, a Cistercian abbot.
Bishop Varden’s reflection centered on the question of St. Bernard’s character and origins, acknowledging his towering influence within the twelfth-century Cistercian movement. He clarified a common misconception, stating that Bernard did not found the order, but rather arrived at Cîteaux in 1113 with a group of thirty companions after the monastery had already been established in 1098. The founding of Cîteaux, Varden explained, was an act of innovation rather than simply a reaction against existing monastic practices.
The Bishop highlighted the apparent contradiction within the Cistercian project – its outwardly conservative appearance coupled with the introduction of novelties by its proponents. He suggested this tension was a source of strength, noting Bernard’s ability to navigate conventional procedures with flexibility, even while upholding them. Varden also acknowledged Bernard’s capacity for strong, sometimes uncompromising positions driven by his perception of the Church’s needs.
Despite his strong convictions, Varden emphasized Bernard’s genuine humility, describing him as a man “fully given to God, capable of tender kindness, a firm friend—able to befriend former enemies—and a compelling witness to God’s love.” He characterized Bernard as a “fascinating” figure, whose internal complexities mirrored a “quicksilver nature” balancing significant tensions.
Varden drew a parallel between Bernard and the Trappist monk Thomas Merton, noting a similar “electrical” quality to their minds and a capacity for provoking debate. He explained that Bernard’s teachings on conversion were rooted in both a deep understanding of scripture and a personal struggle to maintain authenticity and avoid self-righteousness, a lesson learned through experience and hardship.
According to Vatican News, Bishop Varden framed Bernard as a valuable companion for those undertaking a Lenten journey of self-reflection, encouraging a pursuit of authenticity guided by “the all-illumining love of God.” The Vatican’s official news outlet reported that the afternoon session on February 23 focused on the theme of “God’s help,” with Bishop Varden citing Mary Ward’s maxim: “Do your best and God will help.”
The Vatican Spiritual Exercises are an annual event for the Pope and the Roman Curia, providing a period of reflection and spiritual preparation during Lent. Bishop Varden is scheduled to deliver his fifth reflection later this week, continuing the series of meditations on St. Bernard and the themes of faith and conversion.