Becker entered the Society of Jesus on 13 April after having studied classical philology for three semesters. After the novitiate in Cologne, he studied philosophy at the Jesuit Seminary of Pullach (today Hochschule für Philosophie/Philosophical Faculty SJ in Munich) from 1950 to 1953. From 1955 to 1959, he studied theology at the University (Hochschule) for Philosophy and Theology Sankt Georgen in Frankfurt am Main. His doctoral dissertation in theology was "Die Rechtfertigungslehre nach Domingo de Soto. Das Denken eines Konzilstellnehmers vor, in und nach Trient", which he defended in 1963. It was published in 1967.
According to John L. Allen Jr., Becker enjoyed the respect and trust of then-Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, the prefect of the congregation (and future Pope Benedict XVI). More than one theologian in trouble was advised to "go see Fr. Becker." It is widely believed, for example, that Becker was involved in the Vatican's investigation of fellow Jesuit Fr. Jacques Dupuis and his work on religious pluralism.
Pope Benedict XVI made Becker a cardinal on 18 February 2012.[4] Considering his age, Becker asked for and received dispensation not to be consecrated a bishop as required by canon law. Becker was Cardinal-Deacon of San Giuliano Martire.[5]
Works
"Die Rechtfertigungslehre nach Domingo de Soto: Das Denken eines Konzilsteilnehmers vor, in und nach Trient", Analecta Gregoriama, 156 U. Gregoriana Roma 1967
