Rev. Francis Caponi, O.S.A. is a native of Philadelphia. He received his bachelor’s degree from Villanova University in 1983; his master’s degree from the Washington Theological Union in 1989; and his doctorate from Harvard University/School of Divinity in 2000. He has taught systematic theology at Villanova for the last decade. He has published essays in The Thomist, the International Journal of Systematic Theology, Dante Studies, and Horizons, and authored the chapter on Karl Rahner in Partakers of the Divine Nature: The History and Development of Theosis/Deification in the Christian Traditions [2007]. Father Caponi, who is a Bonner graduate, Class of ’79, was gracious enough to participate in a Zoom interview as part of our Catholic Schools Week focus on graduates who pursued religious vocations.
How did your Catholic education shape your vocation? Do you feel this environment played a unique role in nurturing your calling?
I doubt it would ever have a occurred to me to think about a vocation without the intimate connection with Catholic schools. The main advantage of considering the possibility of a religious vocation was seeing the men who were already living it. Examples included my first ten years at St. Barbara’s in Wynnefield, where I was very impressed with our pastor, Father Nelson. At Bonner there were several men who influenced me. Some examples are Father Frank Devlin who challenged us intellectually; and certainly, Father Bill Atkinson who suffered the cross of disability with grace and determination.
Offer advice and encouragement. What wisdom or guidance would you share with students who are discerning their own path, whether it is a religious vocation or other way of life.
It is difficult without the constant presence of priests and sisters to normalize those vocations. With the number of priests and sisters still decreasing, it is a very different world. For instance, today more and more vocations are coming from home schooling which means we must find ways to network with those students. I think “discernment clubs” in high schools and colleges might be one route. Priests, sisters, and laity could introduce students to local Catholic culture. Here in the Philadelphia area, we have the cathedral, a number of shrines (e.g. St. Rita’s, Our Lady of Czestochowa, permanent displays of the relics of saints, Eastern Catholic churches, retreat houses, and so on. There is so much in our area that can be helpful in bridging the gap between school and home.
Tell a memorable story: Is there a specific moment or experience from your time in high school that stands out – perhaps something that brought clarity to your calling or taught an important life lesson?
In grade school, I was fascinated by the sisters who wore habits. I found it interesting and connected it to nurses, doctors, surgeons – all of whom wore special clothing that announced their profession.
But by senior year in high school, I had given up the idea of a religious vocation. Only at the end of my time at Villanova did the idea come up again. I wondered a great deal about the path I was choosing. I was shocked when I began to discuss the possibility with my family and friends and realized that everybody thought it was a great idea. Even a girl I had gone out on few dates with said, “Yes, you would make a great priest.” (If I’m honest, that was a little disappointing!)
Share some insights into your ministry. What is the most rewarding aspect of your vocation? What challenges have deepened your faith and commitment?
In addition to the thrill of teaching, I have loved getting involved in students’ lives: their marriages and baptisms, their successes and their rough times. When I lived in a dorm, I enjoyed how easy it was for students to reach out to me and was often surprised at how faithful they were. Many students at Villanova are faith-filled, ready to give service and committed to developing solid Christian friendships and romantic relationships. They are impressive and more thoughtful than the typical depiction of undergraduates on television and in the movies.
Reflect on community and connection. Have you maintained ties with classmates or found ways that your education continues to support your mission today?
Absolutely! I have stayed I touch with many of my high school classmates and honored to participate in many of their weddings, their children’s baptisms, and more. The friendships I made in high school have shaped my entire life.
Are there any prayers, rituals, or traditions that have remained meaningful to you?
Father Murnane, who taught Latin at Bonner, used to address his students as “discipuli.” I do that with my students too.
What would you tell your high school self now, looking back on your journey?
Father Caponi admitted he was “stumped” by this question, but within a few minutes advised this: “Do not be afraid of what you are being called to. If there are times when you are thinking you are not special enough or strong enough, remember “Do not be afraid.”
Father Caponi, thank you for sharing your time with us.
Interviewer: Linda Liberi Toner, APHS, Class of ‘68.