Xavier University of Louisiana congratulates Bishop Robert P. Boxie III on his ordination to the Order of Bishops on July 7 as an Auxiliary Bishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington, which was announced this past May by Pope Leo XIV.

Bishop Boxie shares a recent connection with Xavier through the university’s commitment to Black Catholic leadership, faith formation, and academic engagement. In March, then-Father Boxie led a group of Howard University campus ministry students on a Black Catholic pilgrimage that included time in New Orleans and a visit to Xavier University of Louisiana. Last summer, he also participated in the Institute for Black Catholic Studies (IBCS) at Xavier.

Known for his pastoral leadership and dedication to ministry among young adults and Black Catholic communities, Bishop Boxie’s appointment marks a significant moment for the Church and for the many students and institutions he has impacted through his service.

“Xavier is honored to have recently welcomed Bishop Boxie to campus through both the Institute for Black Catholic Studies and the Black Catholic pilgrimage experience,” said Reynold Verret. “His appointment reflects a life of faith, scholarship, and service that resonates deeply with Xavier’s Catholic and historically Black mission.”

The Xavier community joins Catholics across the nation in celebrating Bishop Boxie and praying for him as he begins this new chapter of episcopal leadership. Xavier’s Interfaith Chaplain, Rev. Dr. Mitchell Stevens, and University Chaplain, Father Peter Damian, attended the consecration mass in Washington, D.C.