Benedict Neefs

In 1780 he was elected Abbot after the death of Abbot Bruyndonckx. After the imperial probation he was ordained and took membership in the States of Brabant, after the death of the abbot of Vlierbeek. He was elected as representative of the clerical members. His local and economical power reached far behind the monastery walls, as the territory of the abbey was impressive. He erected multiple buildings and continued to reshape the conventual buildings during his office. He requested the painter Herreyns to paint an impressive calvary for the abbey church.[3]

Neefs was is known for his political protests, that even were known in Brussels.[4] He opposed publicly against the reforms of Emperor Joseph II. Together with the Godfried Hermans, abbot of Grimberghen, they firmly protested against the reforms. They were major part of the clerical resistance and participated in processions and took consult with Hendrik Van der Noot. Both the abbots did financially support Pro Aris et Focis.[5]

He died in the Refugium of Brussels, 1790.[6] He was succeeded by dom Raphaël Seghers who was the final abbot of Hemiksen. The portrait of Neefs is kept inside Bornem Abbey.