He owed his election to the influence of his relative Godfrey IV, Duke of Lower Lorraine, with the Emperor Henry IV.
[1] Henry took part in the Synod of Worms (1076).
[2] He was instrumental in refortifying Mirwart castle, which brought enmity from the abbey of Saint-Hubert.
[3] Despite being an imperial supporter in the Investiture Controversy, he built up his diocese by acquisitions (e.g. of Waremme[4] in 1078, Donceel[5]).
Internally he operated as guardian of the Peace of God from 1081,[6] and instituted a court system.