Von Schönenberg was born in Burg Hartelstein in Schwirzheim in 1525.

Pope Gregory XIII confirmed his appointment on 26 January 1582.

As archbishop, Johann von Schönenberg presided over the Trier witch trials.

Shortly before his death, Lothar von Metternich became his coadjutor archbishop.

In 1602, Hans Ruprecht Hoffmann completed a grave-altar at von Schönenberg's tomb.