Father Cedric Pisegna, CP, of Houston, Texas, found his calling to media ministry through earnest prayer. While he was on retreat, God spoke to him about believing in prayer. God acted through Father Cedric’s prayer and opened the doors for a wider outreach. Today, he frequently preaches and broadcasts about prayer.
Beginning in 1991 and continuing to the present, Father Cedric has used a variety of platforms to influence people of all denominations, including print, social media, a website and broadcast media.
“I always say we must have a Church with and especially without walls.”
Fr. Cedric Pisegna, CP
Preparing for a Broader Mission
Immediately after his ordination in 1991, he was inspired to pursue television ministry. However, dreams take time to develop. Father Cedric first spent years preaching missions. In 1999, he began writing books.
“I was being prepared for the broadcast ministry,” he says of the process.
Finally, in 2006, the door opened for television.
“I started on purely Catholic diocesan television stations, such as those in Boston and Long Island. Finally, God opened the door for me to air on Christian networks—Trinity Broadcasting Network, Daystar Television Network and the Catholic EWTN,” Father Cedric explains. “I produce episodes for TV and for radio.”
Reaching People Beyond Church Walls
Father Cedric’s programs reach beyond the walls of the Church and into the walls of prisons. Through these networks, he ministers to people who are incarcerated.
“I try to reach out to people of all faiths, and especially to those who have not yet come to faith. I want to be there to inspire them to find God in their lives.”
Fr. Cedric Pisegna, CP
Inspired by his pre-Passionist career as a social worker and by the experiences of people he has met through his priestly ministry, Father Cedric understands the needs people have. The Passionist way of focusing on Christ’s suffering on the cross is relevant and engaging to those who are struggling and suffering.
Sharing the Gospel Through Storytelling
“I am very orthodox—biblical, Catholic—and I share my own experiences. I preach in a way that tries to capture people’s interest,” says Father Cedric.
“Storytelling really helps. Stories were Jesus’ genius. People have heard all the theology jargon, and it puts them to sleep. My hook has to do with real life, real issues and real solutions. I talk about things like anger, mental illness, grieving and bitterness in relationships. But my heart is trying to save their souls.”
Continuing the Passionist Mission
Father Cedric sees his media ministry as directly continuing the work of St. Paul of the Cross, who was nicknamed “the hunter of souls.”
“Broadcast media is an extension of itinerant preaching. St. Paul of the Cross was an itinerant preacher. I have preached in parishes in almost every state,” Father Cedric explains. “Now God has augmented my outreach through broadcast, printed and social media.”
His recently renewed website proclaims the mission: Touching Lives/Saving Souls. His slogan is “Live with Passion!”
“Passion is a catchword in today’s society,” Father Cedric shares. “I want people to be their best, to achieve and realize their potential.”
“Deepening your relationship with God and being your best self is purpose, and passion flows from purpose.”
Fr. Cedric Pisegna, CP
Whether through his latest book or video series, Father Cedric is determined to be a voice of truth in this generation.
