Entering the Twofold Mystery: On Christian Conversion

In this follow-up to his critically acclaimed book The Shattering of Loneliness, Erik Varden provides a glimpse of the value of a monastic life and a Christian calling in our troubled modern age.

Be whole and so be happy.--St. Bernard, founder of the Cistercian order

In the aftermath of a pandemic and the midst of political upheaval, Erik Varden has observed a growing interest in the monastic life - even among those who have no intention of entering a monastery. For in times of anguish and uncertainty, basic principles of monastic life have become particularly appealing.

Varden, Trappist monk and now Bishop, invites us to observe and learn from monastic life in our turbulent times. After a very personal introduction, he follows the Church year and seasons, always inspired by scriptural reading. The values he highlights include: tranquility; seeking peace; obedience; personal integrity; not continually passing judgement on others; asceticism as opposed to self-indulgence; the importance of generous hospitality; balance; and a life ordered to contemplation.

The teachings within the monastery offer simple, valuable lessons for readers of all creeds struggling to keep faith in an uncertain world.

Author: Erik Varden
Publisher: Bloomsbury Continuum
Published: 06/14/2022
Pages: 272
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.60lbs
Size: 8.50h x 5.30w x 0.90d
ISBN: 9781472979476

Review Citation(s):
Publishers Weekly 04/04/2022

About the Author
Erik Varden is a monk and bishop. Born in Norway, he was a Fellow of St John's College, Cambridge, before entering Mount Saint Bernard Abbey in Leicestershire, UK. He has published several translations and scholarly monographs and is much in demand as a preacher, spiritual director and lecturer. In 2019 Pope Francis appointed him Bishop of Trondheim, Norway.