St. Laurence Names Father Mike Foley '74 Priest In Residence

BURBANK, Ill. — St. Laurence High School is proud to announce the appointment of Father Mike Foley ’74 as the school’s new priest in residence, further strengthening the school’s commitment to faith formation and Catholic identity.

A St. Laurence alumnus with deep roots in both the school and the South Side Catholic community, Father Foley returns to his alma mater after four decades of priestly ministry throughout the Archdiocese of Chicago. A member of the Class of 1974, he comes from a family with a long-standing Viking legacy and previously served on the St. Laurence Board of Directors from 2000 to 2008.

Ordained in 1986, Father Foley has served parishes across Chicago’s southland, including St. Louis de Montfort in Oak Lawn, St. Thomas the Apostle in Chicago, Most Holy Redeemer in Evergreen Park and Our Lady of the Woods in Orland Park. Most recently, he served as Vicar for Priests for the Archdiocese of Chicago, supporting and guiding priests throughout the Archdiocese. He also brings valuable experience working with young people, having served on the faculty of Quigley High School Seminary from 1990 to 2000.

“We are pleased to welcome Father Foley back to St. Laurence in an official capacity,” said St. Laurence President Joseph Martinez ’99. “He has long been a valued member of our school community as an alumnus, board member and celebrant for many of our school liturgies. His enthusiasm, pastoral presence and genuine care for young people will be tremendous blessings for our students, faculty and staff.”

As priest in residence, Father Foley will play a central role in the spiritual life of the school. His responsibilities will include celebrating Mass and the sacraments, providing spiritual guidance and pastoral care, supporting campus ministry initiatives and helping students deepen their relationship with Christ. He will also be a visible and accessible presence throughout campus, building meaningful relationships with students while supporting faculty, staff and families in their faith journeys.

In addition to his work at St. Laurence, Father Foley will help strengthen connections with local Catholic grade schools by offering retreats and faith-based programming for younger students throughout the region.
“I am very excited to be returning to St. Laurence High School,” said Father Foley. “Having taught high school students for 10 years and worked with young people in parish ministry throughout my priesthood, I have a great belief in their desire to discover deeper meaning and purpose in their lives. I look forward to joining the St. Laurence team and helping our students grow in faith as the school continues to build an exciting future.”

Father Foley's appointment reflects St. Laurence’s ongoing commitment to developing young men and women who are not only academically prepared, but also grounded in faith, service and leadership. His experience, wisdom and dedication to Catholic education will help ensure that the spiritual formation of students remains at the heart of the St. Laurence experience.