He was born in Duelmen, Westphalia, in 1843, and in his fifth year was brought to America by his parents. When St. John's College was opened in 1857, he was enrolled as a student and afterward pursued his studies at St. Vincent's College, and at the Assumption College, Montreal, Canada. He was ordained by the Right. Rev. ThomansL. Grace, Bishop of St. Paul, on September 29, 1867. He was President of St. John's College from 1867-1875, when he was elected Abbot of St. John's Abbey.