When a new pope is elected, one of his first acts is to choose a new name.
This tradition, which began in the 6th century and became common by the 11th century, carries deep meaning and significance, reflecting the pope’s mission, values, and spiritual vision for the Church.
The announcement “Habemus Papam”, declaration of a new pope, is made from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Following this proclamation, the new pontiff’s baptismal name is revealed in Latin, a first glimpse into his identity. Then later comes the announcement of his papal name, a name chosen with great significance.
Pope Chooses a New Name to Honour Predecessors
Notably, many choose a name to honour a predecessor or saint they admire.
For example, John Paul I selected his name to honour both John XXIII and Paul VI, while Benedict XVI drew inspiration from Benedict XV, who was known for promoting peace during World War I.
Symbolism and Mission
The name often reflects their intended mission.
When Pope Francis was elected in 2013, he chose his papal name in honour of St. Francis of Assisi, the 13th-century saint renowned for his humility, simplicity, and dedication to the poor.
At the same time, Benedict XVI, elected in 2005, selected his name partly to honour Benedict XV, who was known for his efforts to promote peace during World War I, and St. Benedict, the founder of Western monasticism in the 6th century.
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Thirdly, many choose names to honour a previous pope or a saint they admire or wish to emulate.
John Paul II, elected in 1978, is believed to have initially considered adopting the name “Stanislaus” after the 11th-century Polish bishop and martyr.
However, he chose “John Paul” instead, in a tribute to his immediate predecessor, John Paul I, and to the two popes who guided the Church through the transformative Second Vatican Council.
Each of these name choices reflected the values and missions they wished to carry forward during their papacies.
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Devotion & Influence
Past popes have also chosen names based on their devotion to a particular saint or religious figure, whose life and teachings resonate with his spiritual journey.
For example, John XXIII took his name after Saint John the Evangelist and John the Baptist, as he admired their humility and commitment to the message of love.
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