St. Henry, Emperor, Confessor–W (III)

Henry, the son of Henry, Duke of Bavaria, was chosen Emperor in 1002, upon the death of his cousin, Otto III. He became one of the strongest rulers of the Holy Roman Empire, triumphing over many difficulties as a Christian statesman and warrior. He made frequent journeys through his empire to promote religion, correct public abuses, and prevent the oppression of the poor. According to the chronicles of the time, when upon his return from an expedition against the Greeks in Italy, he was taken sick at Monte Cassino, he was miraculously cured through the intercession of St. Benedict, founder of the abbey.