Why do popes choose different names and what could the new one be called

Why do popes choose different names and what could the new one be called

as with all ceremonies and traditions that with the appointment of a new papstes go hand in hand, the newly chosen name of centuries of the Catholic history Insert levels of meaning.

The importance of choice of name for a Pope

The choice of a new name is one of the first actions that the new papst Roman Catholic Church meets and plays a decisive symbolic role in determining the sound of his pontificate.

This tradition was justified in the early Middle Ages and although there is no doctrinal reason why a Pope should choose a new name, it has become part of the election process.

origin of the tradition of the papal names

The first Pope, St. Peter, bore the name Simon in his appointment by Jesus before becoming the chief of the church. It was only about 500 years later that Pope John II (533-535) began to follow this tradition by taking his birth name Mercurius, since he thought it is too similar to the name of the pagan god Merkur.

The next Pope who changed his name was Peter Canepanova in the 10th century. He chose the name John XIV to avoid confusion with Peter II. After the 10th century it became common for newly elected popes to be chosen for a different name, whereby Popes from countries like France and Germany often chose Italian -sounding names to emulate their predecessors.

The selection of a specific papal name

Every name is associated with its own history and special connotations that often go back to the achievements or failures of the previous popes or holy personalities.

"The connection to the names of earlier popes that overcome crises, inspired reforms or enjoyed great popularity can often, if not always, play a role in the choice of name," said Liam Temple, assistant professor for the history of Catholicism at Center for Catholic Studies at Durham University.

For example, Pope Francis chose his name to honor St. Francis of Assisi, since he stood for peace and nature closeness and also had an eye on the poor. These associations shaped the priorities of his pontificate.

names that could be avoided

A name that the new Pope will definitely not choose is Peter to honor the first Pope, St. Peter - in honor - possibly also due to a centuries -old prophecy, which says that Peter II will be the last pope.

There are also names that are not excluded, but are less likely to be chosen due to their associations with the last load -bearing pope, such as urban. The name would be reminiscent of Urban VIII.

possible names for the new Pope

If the new Pope wants to take a reformer path, names like Leo, the one on Leo XIII. Reminds, which was known for social justice and fair working conditions, or innocence, which of Innocenz XIII. Reminds that fought against corruption, be suitable options.

A newly elected Pope from the global south, similar to Pope Francis, could also choose a name that was taken over by early non-Italian popes such as Gelasius, Miltiades or Viktor, all of which came from Africa.

announcement of the new Papal name

After the white smoke from the chimney of the Sistine chapel has risen and the bells of St. Peter were ringed, the name of the newly elected Pope of the world is announced in a Latin proclamation.

The highest cardinal diacon is entitled to the central balcony of the pars baselica, accompanied by two priests, and gives the iconic announcement: "Habemus papam" ("We have a pope"). The name of the new Pope and its baptismal names are translated into Latin in the announcement, but its last name remains in its original language.

For example, in the election of Pope Francis in 2013, his first name "Jorge Mario" was announced as "Giorgio Marium", but the last name "Bergoglio" remained unchanged. His papal name was adopted as a "franciscum" and was the last word of proclamation as it is.