As the nation’s only historically Black and Catholic institution, Xavier University of Louisiana remains one of the prime locations for Black Catholics to learn and grow in their faith while sharing their unique experiences. This Catholic identity is the very foundation of the institution and is encapsulated in the Institute for Black Catholic Studies (IBCS), which, for over 40 years, has offered a Master of Theology degree program and an in-depth exploration of what it is to be Black and Catholic. This year, five students graduated from the program, joining the ranks of generations of Xavierites, who, instilled with a mission to promote a more just and humane society, go on to serve their communities as leaders and change-makers.  

“This unique program of academic rigor, spiritual formation, and wellness prepares culturally competent scholars and pastoral leaders to continue Christ’s mission of peace, justice, and holiness in the Black Catholic community, the Church, and the community at large,” said Dr. Kathleen Bellow (‘84), director of Xavier’s IBCS, and one of the first graduates of the Master of Theology program that was borne of the IBCS.  

The five 2023 graduates include Princess McEvilley, Aisha C. Young, Connie L. Bowie McCalla, Aubrey F. Osborn, and Derek Rankins Jr.

“What can I say to summarize an experience that has grounded, sustained, and allowed me to see my life in a way I could not see myself?” asked Rankins, who delivered an address during the commencement ceremony that emphasized the Institute’s commitment to Black Catholic theology and praxis. 

Xavier’s IBCS was established in 1980, with its first graduating class accepting their master’s degree in theology in 1984. The 2023 graduating class is the largest since the first several years after its establishment.  

The idea for an institute that can sustain and support the pastoral theological reflection and work of Black Catholic pastors and educators was first introduced to the National Black Catholic Clergy Caucus (NBCCC) in 1969 by Father Augustus Taylor but was not realized until Reverend Thaddeus Posey, OFM reinvigorated the conversation in a 1979 proposal. The proposal called for the inception of an educational institute with a curriculum organized around the pastoral and intellectual needs of Black Catholics that would aid religious men and women ministering in African American communities. As the only historically Black and Catholic institution in the Western Hemisphere, let alone in the nation, Xavier University of Louisiana was offered the opportunity to host the program that would involve into the IBCS a year later. 

IBCS students meet in person every summer for a 3-week session. For about six summers, those in the Master of Theology Program spend three weeks completing coursework and growing in community with one another. During these weeks, they commune with each other and share their own Black and Catholic perspectives amongst themselves while engaging in the history, spirituality, and theological experiences of the African American community. The sessions include various lectures and activities, complete with a daily morning praise session as well as an Elder’s retreat, a time in which an older generation is reminded about the importance of imparting their wisdom on youth. At the end of the 3 weeks, graduates of the Master of Theology Program have their commencement ceremony, where they are celebrated for their growth and representation of the perseverance and spirituality that is Black Catholicism. 

“I am always filled at the graduation of the IBCS; [What an honor] to see the gifts that we’ve prepared and the formation of these that we send off into the world. We are sending you forth with great love,” said Reynold Verret, President of Xavier University of Louisiana during his address of the graduates. “The fruits of the Institute are needed in the world and for all the Church and in this nation.”