He was the third and youngest son of Duke Bolko II of Opole and his wife Elisabeth, daughter of Duke Bernard of Świdnica.

As the youngest child he was destined to a church life.

During his father's lifetime Henry was chosen Canon of the Cathedral of Wrocław.

After the death of Duke Bolko II in 1356, Henry and his brothers Władysław Opolczyk and Bolko III inherited Opole as co-rulers; however, his rule was only a formal one.

Around 1356 Henry began his efforts to obtain the Canonry of the Cathedral of Prague.