Faith, politics and the common good: Luke Foley addresses Formal Hall

Former NSW Opposition Leader Luke Foley joined students, staff and guests at Campion College's Formal Hall on Thursday 22 October, delivering an address on the relationship between faith, politics and the pursuit of truth.

Speaking on the feast of St John Paul II, Mr Foley reflected on the late Pope's enduring influence, drawing particularly on his teachings about human dignity, moral responsibility and the importance of truth in public life.

Mr Foley, who led the NSW Labor Party from 2015 to 2018, explored the contribution of Catholic social teaching to political thought, including its emphasis on the dignity of work, care for the vulnerable and the common good. He also challenged the notion that religious belief should be excluded from public debate, arguing that people of faith have an important role to play across the political spectrum.

"We need people of faith and values on both sides of the aisle in politics, bearing witness to their faith and giving life to their values," he said.

Encouraging students to put their education and convictions into practice, Mr Foley concluded with a call to seek truth and serve others.

"In your years here at Campion and beyond, seek out - and love - the truth. Live by your principles. Protect the vulnerable. Serve the common good."

Campion College President Dr Paul Morrissey thanked Mr Foley for his thoughtful address, noting its close connection to the College's educational mission and the harmony of faith and reason in tertiary education.

The evening also featured a standout musical performance by Benjamin Lloyd and Joao-Paulo d'Assumpcao, who presented Camille Saint-Saëns' Allegro Appassionato. See below for photos from the night.