MAES, Bonifacius. - Ascetic-mystical Franciscan theologian, born in Ghent (Belgium) in 1627, died there on 3 Oct. 1706. He entered the Order of Friars Minor in 1647. For several years he taught philosophy and theology to his brethren. He was four times guardian of the convent at Ieperen, and in 1677 provincial of the entire Flemish province. He later served as commissary general of the provinces of Belgium, Germany, France, and Ireland, and finally as definitor general of the Order.
This “eminent ascetic” (Hutter, II, col. 783) wrote various spiritual treatises, including the well-known *Mystieke Theologie of te verborgen Godtsghele-ethyet* (*Theologia mystica*; Ghent 1668), of which at least sixteen editions are known: nine in Flemish, six in Latin, and one in French. The purpose of this work is to prepare devout souls for the ascetical path leading to the contemplative life, which crowns the spiritual life. M. bases himself on the spiritual doctrine of the Franciscans Henry Harphius (v. HERR) and Alfonso of Madrid (*De vera Deo apte inserviendo methodo*).