Heinrich Birnbaum

Career

On account of his edifying example in the observance of the rule and his extensive scriptural and theological learning he was highly esteemed by his confrères, and as early as 1438, only three years after his entrance into the order, he became prior of the monastery of Mont Saint André at Tournai (Doornik) in Belgium. The desire for a reform of the religious orders, which animated many great men of the 15th century, had also penetrated the soul of Birnbaum. After holding the position of prior at Mont Saint André for 7 years, he was active in the same office successively at Wesel in the Duchy of Cleves, until 1457.

At Rettel in Lorraine, until 1459.

At Trier, until 1461. And at Diest in Belgium, until 1463.

The remaining ten years of his life Birnbaum spent in writing several ascetic works and in preparing for a happy death. "Defensio pro Immaculato Conceptu B.M.V."

"Excepta ex malo granato cum nonnullis conjunctis".

Achievements

• Being a true reformer, he soon succeeded, by the irresistible force of his own pious example, in abolishing the few abuses that had found admittance into the various monasteries over which he became prior, and in restoring the austere monastic discipline established by the founder Saint Bruno.

Membership

Birnbaum wrote for the instruction and direction of the members of his order a number of works, many of which, however, have not yet been put in print, also:.