It looks like Archbishop John Foley is destined to get his red hat.

The 71-year-old Foley has been head of the Pontifical Council for Social Communications since 1984, and he is probably (to my knowledge, at least) the only high-ranking member of the hierarchy with a master’s from Columbia University’s School of Journalism.

Today, he was named Pro-Grand Master of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem — which makes him effectively a member of the College of Cardinals. As CNS noted: “Naming Archbishop Foley pro-grand master, Pope Benedict seemed to indicate that he would be named a cardinal during the next consistory, which likely will be held in November.”

Archbishop Foley, who will remain in Rome, succeeds retired Italian Cardinal Carlo Furno, 85.

Foley was a familiar media figure in the days surrounding John Paul’s death, when he popped up to give commentary on television during the funeral and conclave. And he has an impressive background as a journalist and editor in the Catholic press. He has managed to wear two hats, as journalist and cleric — something us lesser clerics find difficult, even in the best of days. Now, it looks like one of those hats will soon be red.

I like this little quote Rocco pulled up from the vault:

“Remember,” Foley’s mentor told the young priest on sending him to Columbia J, “you’re a priest who just happens to be a journalist — not a journalist who just happens to say Mass.”

Those are words that someone should sew on a sampler. I’d happily hang it over my desk at CBS.

Photo: John Foley from AP