Frank Desiderio
Retired Catholic Priest
Frank Desiderio, C.S.P., is a poet, priest, producer, and organizational leader who has worked at the intersection of progressive Catholic theology and pastoral communications. Throughout his career, he has engaged in various activities, from teaching homiletics to producing documentaries, television movies, and digital content. With Master's degrees in Theology and Communications, Frank has shaped his vocation around bridging faith with modern media and communication techniques.
A Poet and Author
Frank is a dedicated poet who has appeared in various literary journals and anthologies, including Spring Hill Review, Amethyst Magazine, America Magazine (online edition), Presence, and Prairie Messenger. His poetry has also been featured in several anthologies, such as Moving Image: Inspired by Film, Thin Places & Sacred Spaces, and As Surely As the Sun. In 2012, he co-authored a poetry collection titled Sibling Reverie with his sister, Mimi Moriarty, published by Finishing Line Press.
In 2014, Frank authored the book Can You Let Go of a Grudge: Learning to Forgive and Get On with Your Life, published by Paulist Press. This book delves into forgiveness's spiritual and personal dimensions, reflecting his deep pastoral insights. As a full-time poet, Frank publishes two original poems weekly at Holy Poetry, a Substack publication. His poetry resonates with readers, offering reflections on life, faith, and personal growth.
In addition to his writing, Frank served as chaplain at the Chautauqua Institution in New York in 2006 and has participated in poetry workshops and retreats across the United States. He has also led retreats that combine preaching and poetry, further blending his passion for literature and ministry.
Desiderio’s Career in Leadership and Ministry
Frank’s leadership career spans several decades, including his work with the Paulist Fathers, an order of Catholic priests founded in 1858. From 2014 until his retirement in 2023, he served as part of the leadership team of the Paulist Fathers in New York. In this capacity, he was responsible for numerous administrative functions, including financial planning, real estate management, human resources, and fundraising. Frank was instrumental in securing a seven-figure donation and raising funds for a $30 million capital campaign that supported the construction of a new seminary, renovating a rectory, and caring for elderly priests.
At the same time, Frank served as the Director of St. Mary’s of the Lake, a seasonal retreat center and chapel in Lake George, New York. In this role, he welcomed visitors, managed staff, and ensured the upkeep of the property’s historic buildings and grounds.
Frank also served as Director at the Paulist Center in Boston from 2010 to 2014. The center is known for its social justice initiatives, including its longstanding weekly hot meal program for people experiencing homelessness. During his tenure, he oversaw a staff of 10 and worked closely with a board of eight.
Earlier in his career, Frank Desiderio served as rector of St. Paul’s College, the Paulist Fathers’ seminary in Washington, D.C. While there, he taught courses on preaching at Catholic University and pastoral communication at the Washington Theological Union.
Ordained in 1982, Frank's early ministry included serving as Director of Campus Ministry at the University Catholic Center at UCLA. He was critical in expanding the ministry and initiated various outreach programs. He also served as a volunteer chaplain at the 1984 Olympics and wrote a weekly column for The Daily Bruin.
Executive Producer of Films and Documentaries
As president of Paulist Productions, Frank produced over 25 hours of television documentaries and films for prominent outlets such as the History Channel, A&E, Hallmark, ABC, and Channel 4 in the UK. His work included the ABC/Paramount movie Judas (2002), the webisode series Tyler’s Ride, and the award-winning documentary The Big Question: A Film About Forgiveness. This film premiered at the Sedona International Film Festival and won Best Documentary at several other film festivals. The success of this documentary led Frank to create and facilitate retreats on the theme of forgiveness, which he continues to lead across the U.S.
Other notable projects include the History Channel’s Visions of Mary and Joseph: The Silent Saint, the eight-hour documentary series The Jesus Experience, and Healing & Prayer: Power or Placebo for A&E. He also produced multiple documentaries for the History Channel, including The Apostle Paul and Judas.
Radio Producer and Chairman of the Human Family Educational and Cultural Institute
Earlier in his career, Frank worked as a radio producer at Paulist Communications from 1988 to 1991, where he helped produce Paulist Communication News Magazine and Religion In The News. During this time, he earned his Master’s in Communications Management from the University of Southern California.
Between 2000 and 2010, Frank served as chairman of the Human Family Educational and Cultural Institute, which is dedicated to recognizing film and television work that enriches society. Under his leadership, the Institute hosted master workshops with renowned Hollywood writers like David Milch and Dick Wolf.
Education and Personal Life
Originally from Washington, D.C., Frank graduated from the University of Maryland in 1976 with a degree in English literature. He later earned a Master’s degree in Theology from the Catholic University of America and a second one from USC.
On a personal level, Frank practices Tai Chi and enjoys spending time with his nieces and nephews. He resides in New York City, which is in the Lenape homelands. Frank is a founding board member of PATH (People Assisting the Homeless) and a strong advocate for charitable work, providing vital services to California's homeless communities. He also regularly donates to Catholic charities and other local and global causes.
Frank Desiderio has had a distinguished career as a poet, priest, producer, and leader. His work in theology, communications, and the arts continues to impact his faith community and the broader public. Whether through his poetry, ministry leadership, or media contributions, Frank’s work reflects his deep commitment to faith, forgiveness, and service to others.
Learn more: Hortatory Poetry: My Poetry Philosophy
Portfolio: https://frankdesiderio.com
