Bonifatius Becker (born August 15, 1907, in Düsseldorf; died January 8, 1989, in Paring) was a German Catholic priest, theologian, and church historian, a member of the Canons Regular of St. Augustine (Augustinian Canons) at Paring Abbey.
Biography Born Karl Heinrich Becker, he entered the Canons Regular of St. Augustine in 1928, taking the religious name Bonifatius. He was ordained a priest in 1934. Becker dedicated his life to scholarship, particularly focusing on the history of the Augustinian Canons and medieval church history. He studied theology and philosophy and became a prominent scholar within his order.
Scholarly Contributions Becker was recognized for his extensive research and publications, primarily on the history of the Canons Regular of St. Augustine and the Windesheim Congregation. His work provided significant insights into the monastic reform movements of the late Middle Ages and the intellectual and spiritual life of the Augustinian Canons. He meticulously edited and analyzed historical texts, making important contributions to the understanding of various Augustinian foundations and their role in church history. His publications often appeared in specialized historical and theological journals, as well as in comprehensive monographs.
Legacy Bonifatius Becker's scholarship helped to preserve and illuminate the rich history of the Augustinian Canons. He is remembered as a diligent and dedicated historian whose work remains a valuable resource for medievalists and scholars of religious orders. He spent many years at Paring Abbey, where he also served in various capacities within his community, combining his pastoral duties with his academic pursuits.
Selected Works While a comprehensive list is extensive, Becker's work often focused on specific monasteries and figures within the Augustinian tradition. His articles and books are primarily in German.