Episode 373: Abbot Bradley Vanden Branden on Becoming the New Abbot of St. Norbert Abbey
Hey Everybody! It's Fr. Edward
Abbot Bradley R. Vanden Branden, O. Praem., was elected the eighth abbot of St. Norbert Abbey in De Pere, WI on January 15, 2026, and received his abbatial blessing on April 18, 2026. In what may be his first longform sit-down interview outside of print media, Abbot Brad joins Fr. Edward for a wide-ranging conversation about his vocational discernment, Norbertine spirituality, and the mission of the Canons Regular of Prémontré in the United States. The conversation explores the life of St. Norbert of Xanten — including the famous “spider incident” and his title as the Apostle of the Eucharist — while also introducing listeners to the unique charism and communal life of the Norbertines. Abbot Brad reflects on the Chapter of Election and shares what was going through his mind as it became clear he would be chosen as abbot, including the prayers that sustained him in that moment. He also discusses the meaning behind his episcopal motto and newly designed coat of arms. Along the way, Fr. Edward asks a series of personal and spiritual questions: * Which Norbertines most inspired him? * If he had taken a religious name, what would he have chosen? * Which spiritual books would he recommend? * What Marian title is closest to his heart? * Which saintly intercessor does he turn to most? This episode offers a rare and personal introduction to the new abbot of one of America’s most historic Norbertine communities.