2026 Catholic Media Conference Brings Together Communicators from Across North America

On June 17, the second day of the Catholic Media Conference brought together media professionals for a full day of keynote presentations, workshops and panel discussions addressing current opportunities and challenges in Catholic communications. Among the sessions attended by Oksana Loziak was "Why Branding Matters in Catholic Ministry," presented by Matt Haas, President of Syndicate Strategies. The session explored how effective branding extends beyond logos and visual design to encompass an organization's identity, reputation, voice, consistency, and the deeper meaning people associate with its mission.

The day's keynote presentation, "The Mirror and the Window: AI and the Future of Catholic Communication," was delivered by Taylor Black, Director of AI and Venture Ecosystems at Microsoft and Inaugural Director of AI and Emerging Technologies at The Catholic University of America. The presentation examined the growing influence of artificial intelligence and its implications for the future of communication and media ministry.

On June 18, the third day of the conference began with a series of workshops. Presenters included Michael J. La Civita, Executive Editor of ONE Magazine and Director of Communications and Marketing for the Catholic Near East Welfare Association; Laura Ieraci, Editor of ONE Magazine; Elizabeth Belsky, Marketing Manager for the Catholic Near East Welfare Association; Francisca Enemuo, Social Media Specialist for the Catholic Near East Welfare Association. The media panel, “Communicating the Vision of Pope Leo XIV: Truth, Technology and Evangelization,” was moderated by Kerry Weber, Executive Editor of America Media and President of the Catholic Media Association. Panelists included Dr. Paolo Ruffini, Prefect of the Holy See’s Dicastery for Communication; Carol Glatz, Editor in Chief of the Catholic News Service Rome Bureau; and Fr. Arthur Purcaro, OSA, Assistant Vice President for Mission and Ministry at Villanova University. The day concluded with additional workshops and the celebration of Mass.

June 19^th was a closing day. It started from continuation of the workshops sessions, keynotes speeches, film screening and concluded with the Annual CMA Memorial Mass and Catholic Media Rewards & 60th Annual Gabriel Reward.

The conference concluded with a memorable expression of support for Ukraine. Following the closing Mass, Bishop Joseph A. Williams noticed a representative of the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia among the participants and warmly greeted her with the words, “Slava Ukraini!” The brief but heartfelt exchange served as a meaningful reminder of the solidarity and prayers that continue to unite Catholics in support of the Ukrainian people.