Frank Desiderio

Frank Desiderio, C.S.P., is not your average priest. He is a poet whose words dance across the page, a filmmaker whose documentaries illuminate the human spirit, and a pastoral leader whose faith guides everything he does. His career is a tapestry of creative endeavors woven with threads of theology, media, and a deep commitment to social justice. Whether through the lens of a camera, the written word, or the pastoral care he provides, Frank’s work invites us to explore faith, forgiveness, and the profound mysteries of the human experience.

The Poet-Priest: A Voice for the Soul

Frank’s poetry is both a sanctuary and a challenge—an invitation to reflect, forgive, and heal. His work has graced the pages of journals like America and Presence, and his poetic voice resonates in anthologies that explore sacred spaces and the intersections of life and faith. Co-authoring Sibling Reverie with his sister, Mimi Moriarty, Frank captures the intimate, unspoken connections between siblings, religion, and family. His book Can You Let Go of a Grudge: Learning to Forgive and Get On with Your Life (Paulist Press, 2014) distills the power of forgiveness into practical wisdom that helps readers move beyond resentment to peace.

Frank’s poetic offerings, now published weekly in Holy Poetry on Substack, continue to inspire a growing audience of readers who seek beauty and meaning in the written word. His poetry is a ministry unto itself, a healing balm for those who struggle with the complexities of faith, relationships, and personal growth.

Leadership in Faith: A Heart for Service

Ordained in 1982, Frank’s ministry has been as diverse as it has been impactful. From his early years as Director of Campus Ministry at UCLA, where he nurtured the spiritual growth of young people during the 1984 Olympic Games, to his tenure as the rector of St. Paul’s College in Washington, D.C., Frank has always been a leader who combines deep theological understanding with practical, hands-on service. At the Paulist Center in Boston, where he served as Director, Frank led efforts that included one of the longest-running weekly hot meal programs for the homeless, reflecting his passion for social justice and serving the marginalized.

In his leadership role within the Paulist Fathers, Frank secured seven-figure gifts for major capital campaigns, ensuring that the order’s work would continue for generations. He also helped build and renovate key properties, including a seminary and rectory in New York City, leaving a legacy of infrastructure and care for the community.

A Visionary Producer: Faith Meets Media

As executive producer at Paulist Productions, Frank’s impact extended far beyond the pulpit. He brought the stories of faith to the screen, producing over 25 hours of documentaries and television films for networks such as the History Channel, A&E, and Hallmark. His work explored topics ranging from the Apostle Paul to the power of forgiveness in The Big Question: A Film About Forgiveness, which earned recognition at the Sedona International Film Festival and won Best Documentary at multiple film festivals. This film inspired a series of retreats and talks around the country, extending Frank’s ministry from the screen to in-person spiritual renewal experiences.

Frank Desiderio’s filmmaking journey also saw him produce Visions of Mary and Joseph for the History Channel and the documentary The Jesus Experience, an eight-hour series exploring Christ's life and impact across cultures. His production work always aimed to bring the timeless messages of faith into the contemporary world, engaging audiences with stories that spoke to the heart and soul.

A Lifelong Learner and Teacher

Frank’s educational journey is as diverse as his career. Holding a degree in English Literature from the University of Maryland and advanced degrees in Theology and Communications from the Catholic University of America and USC, he brings academic rigor and creative insight to his work. His teaching role at the Catholic University of America and the Washington Theological Union, where he taught preaching and pastoral communication, helped shape a generation of leaders in the church. Frank’s influence extends beyond his formal teaching roles; he continues mentoring young artists and faith leaders, offering guidance grounded in theology and the arts.

A Personal Legacy: Family, Faith, and Community

Frank is deeply committed to his family, community, and faith outside his professional life. He is a proud uncle to eight nieces and nephews, and he lives in New York City, deeply connected to the land and people of Lenape homelands. Frank’s philanthropic endeavors include founding board membership at PATH, an organization providing services to the homeless, and supporting a variety of Catholic charities both locally and globally.

When not writing, producing, or leading retreats, Frank enjoys the meditative practice of Tai Chi, finding balance and peace in a busy world. He continues to give back to the world around him, with his heart firmly rooted in the belief that storytelling can change lives through poetry, film, or leadership.

The Intersection of Art and Faith

Frank Desiderio’s life is a testament to the power of art, faith, and leadership to inspire and transform. He continues to show the world that creativity and faith are not separate pursuits but deeply intertwined, from his poetry to pastoral leadership to his work as a producer. His work is not just a career; it’s a calling—a way to bring people closer to God, each other, and themselves.

Learn more: https://frankdesiderio.com/hortatory-poetry-my-poetry-philosophy