The annual Symposium typically takes place during the last week of May. The next event in the series is tentatively scheduled for May 28, 2026.
The timing of the Symposium runs near to the global celebration of World Communications Day.
World Communications Day is the only worldwide celebration called for by the Second Vatican Council (in the decree Inter mirifica, n. 18).
The announcement of the day’s theme is made on September 29, the Feast of the Archangels Michael, Raphael and Gabriel, patrons of those who work in radio.
The Holy Father’s message is traditionally published on January 24, in conjunction with the Memorial of St. Francis de Sales, patron saint of writers.
The celebration of World Communications Day usually takes place on the Sunday before Pentecost (May 24, 2026).
The annual symposium at Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary honors the legacy of Cardinal John Foley and his instrumental work in advancing communications in the Catholic Church as president of what was then the Pontifical Council for Social Communications from 1984 to 2007.
The symposium typically includes three components:
(1) a “town hall” focused on the papal message for World Communications Day … during which professional journalists and/or invited experts engage the public in a discussion of how the values expressed by the Holy Father can impact the contemporary world of mass media and social communications.
(2) a luncheon or social gathering for invited journalists and guests
(3) presentation of the Cardinal Foley Award … to a professional whose work exemplifies the positive potential of mass media to inform, instruct, and inspire others in the quest to build a more just world.
For information on previous celebrations, click on the links below:
- 2025 Foley Symposium
- 2024 … no Symposium took place due to the Seminary’s re-location
- 2023 Foley Symposium on the Future of Catholic Journalism
- 2022 Foley Symposium
- 2021 Foley Symposium … canceled due to technical difficulties
- 2020 Foley Symposium
- 2019 Foley Symposium
- 2018 Foley Symposium
- 2017 Foley Symposium
- 2016 Foley Symposium
