Godfrey took his lineage from the Counts of Cappenberg in Westphalia, who were
related to the Salians and Staufers. After his participation in the siege and
destruction of Münster, Westphalia, in 1121, together with his brother
Otto, he handed over the fortress of Cappenberg to St. Norbert on May 31, 1122.
This was done contrary to the desires of his father-in-law, Count Frederick
of Arnsberg. This resulted in the first foundation of the Premonstratensian
Order in Germany. Further provostries developed on Godfrey’s properties
in 1123 at Ilbenstadt (Wetterau) and in 1128 at Varlar near Coesfeld (Westphalia).
His wife Judith and his sisters Godberg and Beatrice entered the house of canonesses
at Cappenberg. Around 1200 this women’s cloister was moved to Oberndorf
near Wesel. After the death of Count Frederick both brothers were vested in
the white habit in 1124. At Cappenberg Godfrey set up a hospital for the poor
and needy. Here he himself actively shared in the work. In 1125 Norbert called
his follower to Prémontré, where he was ordained an acolyte, and
later to Magdeburg. Due to reasons of health Godfrey soon had to return to Ilbenstadt
where he died on January 13, 1127 not even 30 years old.
Relics: Cappenberg and Ilbenstadt
Approbation of cult: In 1614 for Cappenberg, January 22/March 8, 1728 by Benedict
XIII.
Representation: as a count/knight, as a Premonstratensian, with crown laid aside,
model of a church, bread basket and skull, kneeling before an angel with cross
and crown, an orb at his feet, with scepter and a garland of pearls, with an
appearance of the child Jesus who places a crown on him.