When a new pope is elected, one of his first actions is to pick a new name. This name holds religious and historical meaning. While not required by doctrine, this tradition began centuries ago and has become a key part of papal transitions.
The practice began with Pope John II, who led the Church from 533 to 535. He changed his original name, Mercurius, because it resembled the name of a Roman god. This started a trend that later popes followed. For example, in the 10th century, Peter Canepanova became John XIV to avoid being called Peter II.
Since then, newly elected popes usually adopt new names — often choosing ones that reflect respected figures in Church history. Only a few have kept their birth names, such as Marcellus II and Adrian VI in the 1500s.
What Influences the Name Choice
Popes often select names that reflect the ideals or legacies of saints or former popes. Some names recall periods of strength, reform, or unity in Church history.
As Liam Temple from Durham University explained, “Linking to the names of previous popes who weathered crises, inspired reform, or were incredibly popular can often, although not always, play a role in the choosing of a name.”
For instance, Pope Francis chose his name to honor St. Francis of Assisi. This saint was known for peace, humility, and care for the poor — values Francis embraced in his papacy.
Similarly, Pope Benedict XVI honored both St. Benedict and Pope Benedict XV. His name symbolized a call for peace and reconciliation, especially given the historical context of World War I.
Names Popes Tend to Avoid
Certain names are avoided because of strong historical or prophetic associations. The name Peter is never used out of respect for St. Peter, the first pope. Some believe that a “Peter II” would signal the end of the papacy, based on a centuries-old prophecy.
Other names are simply unpopular due to negative associations. Temple pointed out that Urban, linked to Urban VIII and his trial of Galileo, would not reflect modern values on science and faith. He also said the name Pius may remind people of Pope Pius XII and his controversial role during World War II.
What Names Could the Next Pope Choose?
If the next pope wants to highlight reform, he might consider names like Leo or Innocent. Leo XIII, for instance, supported workers’ rights and social justice. Innocent XIII tried to clean up corruption in the Church.
If the new pope comes from the Global South — as Pope Francis did — he might choose a name with roots in early non-European Christianity. Names like Gelasius, Miltiades, or Victor come from African-born popes of the early Church.
There have been 44 papal names used only once. Pope Francis is the most recent example. According to Temple, “It had been around 1,100 years since the last uniquely named pope in the form of Pope Lando, whose pontificate lasted less than a year in the 10th century.”
Among the most common names, John leads with 21 uses, followed by Gregory (16) and Benedict (15). Leo and Innocent each appear 13 times. However, the count for Benedict skips Benedict X, who was declared an antipope.
How the New Pope’s Name Is Revealed
Once a new pope is elected, the Vatican sends out clear signals. White smoke rises from the Sistine Chapel’s chimney, and St. Peter’s Basilica bells ring. Then, the senior cardinal deacon steps onto the central balcony.
With two priests by his side, he announces in Latin: “Habemus Papam” — “We have a pope.” He then gives the new pope’s birth names and chosen name in Latin. The surname is kept in its original language.
For example, when Pope Francis was elected in 2013, “Jorge Mario” became “Giorgio Marium,” but “Bergoglio” remained unchanged. His papal name “Franciscum” was spoken last, following tradition.
