GIOVANNI of BRUNA (BRÜNN, BRNO). - Mystic of the 14th century, first a Beghard and then a Dominican.
The confessions of G. and of Alberto di Brünn in Moravia before the inquisitor Fr. Gallo O.P. of Neuhaus are a source for knowledge of the doctrine and practice of the Beghards and for the life of G. di Brünn. He lived in Brünn in the married state, aspiring to the “perfect life,” which, according to a trusted acquaintance whom he consulted, consisted in the life of the Beghards, who live in poverty and in the spirit, without concern for direction by priests. Dividing his property, G. gave half to his wife, who did not consent to his departure, and took the other half with him to Cologne, where he entered among the brethren of the Free Spirit or Beghards, dwelling near the church of S. Stefano. After 20 years he rose among the “perfect,” whose life he led for 8 years. Finally converted to Catholic doctrine, he entered the Dominicans, whom he assisted in cases of inquisition.