New Washington Auxiliary Bishop Appointed Amid Church's Slavery Reckoning

Pope Leo XIV has appointed Bishop-designate Robert P. Boxie III as the new auxiliary bishop of Washington. His ordination is set for 7 July, marking a significant moment for the Catholic Church in the US. The appointment follows the Pope’s recent apology for the Church’s historical involvement in slavery. Bishop-designate Boxie has served as chaplain at the Sister Thea Bowman Catholic Student Center at Howard University. He has also highlighted the legacy of the 'Saintly Seven', a group of African American Catholics under consideration for sainthood, three of whom were once enslaved.

In a recent encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas, Pope Leo acknowledged the Church’s role in slavery and issued a formal apology. Boxie expressed joy and relief at this gesture, stressing the importance of the Church’s ongoing advocacy for racial justice.

The history of slavery in the US remains a painful legacy. While the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776, enslavement persisted until 1865, with Juneteenth commemorating its end. Georgetown University’s early funding included proceeds from the 1838 sale of 272 enslaved people, a stark reminder of the institution’s deep ties to slavery. Boxie’s upcoming ordination comes at a time of reckoning for the Church. His emphasis on justice and the Pope’s apology reflect efforts to address past wrongs. The new bishop’s role will likely include continuing this work within the Washington diocese.