Frank Desiderio

Frank Desiderio, C.S.P., is a priest whose work integrates creativity, faith, and service. As a poet, filmmaker, and pastoral leader, he has used his unique talents to inspire and uplift others. His career is marked by a strong commitment to social justice, inviting people to explore the profound themes of faith, forgiveness, and the complexities of the human experience. Frank has dedicated himself to healing and guiding individuals toward spiritual growth through poetry, film, and ministry.

Frank’s poetry is both a source of comfort and a challenge for readers. His words encourage deep reflection on faith, personal growth, and relationships. His work has been featured in well-known journals like America and Presence and has touched many through his poems. Co-authoring Sibling Reverie with his sister, Frank explores the powerful bonds between siblings, faith, and family. In his book Can You Let Go of a Grudge: Learning to Forgive and Get On with Your Life (Paulist Press, 2014), he offers practical insights into the transformative power of forgiveness, helping readers move past resentment and toward peace. His weekly poetry, shared on Substack, inspires an ever-growing audience, providing comfort and wisdom for those on their spiritual journeys.

Ordained in 1982, Frank’s ministry has spanned various roles, each grounded in service and leadership. As Director of Campus Ministry at UCLA, he helped guide students spiritually during the 1984 Olympic Games. Later, as rector of St. Paul’s College in Washington, D.C., he combined theological insight with practical service. At the Paulist Center in Boston, Frank led one of the longest-running hot meal programs for people experiencing homelessness, reflecting his deep commitment to social justice.

Within the Paulist Fathers, Frank helped secure significant capital gifts and oversaw the renovation of properties that would ensure the future of the order’s work. As executive producer at Paulist Productions, he created documentaries for networks such as History Channel and A&E. His film The Big Question: A Film About Forgiveness earned recognition at multiple film festivals and inspired national retreats and talks.

With degrees in English Literature, Theology, and Communications, Frank Desiderio has taught at the Catholic University of America and Washington Theological Union. His work continues to mentor young leaders, demonstrating the transformative power of faith.

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