Burch (or Burcht), Francois Van Der

Burch (Or Burcht), Francois Van Der a celebrated French prelate, was born at Gand, July 26, 1567. He was of a noble family, and one which added much to the literature of the 16th century. From the bishopric of Gand he was called, June 14,1615, to the see of Cambrai. He was a prelate of great activity, rare piety, and large benevolence, and was the founder of several institutions for the instruction of poor children, one of the most important of which is known in' Cambresis under the name of St. Agnes, where the children of Catholic parents are taken care of. He also founded the Dominicale, a similar institution, and to him was given the title of "Pere des Pauvres." He died at Mons, May 23, 1644. Some of the pastoral letters of Van der Burch have been published. See Hoefer, Nouv. Biog. Generale, s.v.