Statement of NBCCC President Father Kareem R. Smith on the Appointment of Bishop-elect Robert P. Boxie III

May 1, 2026

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

On behalf of the National Black Catholic Clergy Caucus, I write with great joy and gratitude to God as we celebrate the appointment of Reverend Father Robert P. Boxie III as Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Washington.

Bishop-elect Boxie, a native of Lake Charles, Louisiana, was ordained to the priesthood in June 2016 for the Archdiocese of Washington. His ministry has already been marked by a thoughtful pastoral presence, a deep love for the Church, and a clear commitment to forming others in the life of faith.

In recent years, he has played a vital role in fostering the life of faith on the campus of the historic Howard University as the founding chaplain of the Sister Thea Bowman Catholic Student Center. His ministry reflects a pastoral heart attuned to the needs of young people and a commitment to engaging faith in both intellectual and lived contexts.

This moment carries particular importance for Black Catholics across our nation. Bishop-elect Boxie’s appointment is a meaningful affirmation of the gifts and witness of Black priests who continue to serve the Church with dedication, often navigating unique challenges with faith and perseverance. His elevation reminds us that the contributions of Black Catholics remain a vital and life-giving part of the Church’s mission.

Bishop-elect Boxie has long been connected to the mission of the National Black Catholic Clergy Caucus. Currently a Board member and an active participant in the life of the Caucus, Bishop-elect Boxie has made significant contributions to our collective efforts. His witness reflects the depth and richness of our shared spiritual heritage. Rooted in faith, sustained by perseverance, and animated by the joy of the Gospel, his ministry continues to inspire.

We give thanks to God for this moment in the life of the Church. With confidence in the grace that has guided him thus far, we trust that he will serve as a faithful shepherd, a source of unity, and a courageous preacher of the Gospel.

The National Black Catholic Clergy Caucus extends our heartfelt congratulations to Bishop-elect Boxie, his family, and the faithful of the Archdiocese of Washington. Let us assure him of our prayers as he prepares to take up this new responsibility in the life of the Church.

We commend him in a special way to the intercession of the Saintly Seven:

Venerable Pierre Toussaint, pray for him.
Venerable Mother Mary Lange, pray for him.
Venerable Mother Henriette Delille, pray for him.
Venerable Father Augustus Tolton, pray for him.
Servant of God Julia Greeley, pray for him.
Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman, pray for him.
Servant of God Father Martin Maria de Porres Ward, pray for him.

May their witness strengthen him, their prayers sustain him, and their example guide him as he embraces this new call to serve the People of God.

Fraternally in Christ,

Rev. Kareem R. Smith
President