As a child, Engelbert received several endowed church offices through family influence, then was named archbishop of Cologne (Germany) in 1217. Though involved mostly with secular matters, he also was known for generosity to the poor and fairness in disputes. His sainthood came through martyrdom. When Engelbert demanded that his cousin Frederick make restitution to nuns in Essen for stealing their property and abusing his administrative trust, Frederick and other nobles assassinated him.