Overview
- Delivering his sixth meditation on Feb. 25 in the Pauline Chapel, Bishop Erik Varden said internal corruption has damaged the Church's witness more than external opposition.
- He warned that the wounds will take time to heal and said they call out for justice and for tears.
- He cautioned against presuming founders and new communities were corrupt from the start, noting that early signs of inspiration can coexist with later failures.
- Drawing on St. Bernard, he urged vigilance over everyday conduct and online habits as tests of a leader’s integrity, and he referenced Céline Hoyeau’s reporting on founders’ abuse.
- The Lenten Spiritual Exercises for Pope Leo XIV and senior Curia officials run Feb. 22–27, with later talks continuing the Bernardine focus, including a reflection on glory.