Tradition dates back to the origins of the Church: the first Pope, the apostle Paul, was called Simon.
Understand why the pontiffs choose new names; Conclave who will choose the new Pope will begin on Wednesday (7)
It is part of the tradition of the Catholic Church to replace the names from the popes with religious names, known as “pontifical names”. For example: Pope Francis was appointed Jorge Mario (Bergoglio was his surname). In the same way, Pope John Paul II was baptized as Karol, a Polish name that derives from Karl (“Carlos” in Portuguese).
According to the Vatican News, the Holy See news portal, a new name to the Pope represents the “new identity” of this priest, who will become the world leader of Catholics. When the religious is elected Pope in the conclave, he feels two questions from his peers: “Do you accept your canonical elections as a high pontiff?” And “How do you want to be called?”
This tradition dates back to the origins of Christianity. The apostle Peter, who is the first Pope, felt the designation of his new identity from Jesus himself, according to the biblical text: “You are Pietro and on this stone I will build my church”. Peter’s original name was Simon.
St. Francis
The names of the names of the bishops who are elected popes are personal and vary widely, but are generally linked to saints and apostles. Pope Francis, for example, was inspired by San Francesco d’Assisi. In his words, the saint was “the man of poverty, the man of peace, the man who loves and retains creation”. John Paul II has already mentioned his predecessor, whose papacy in 1978 lasted 33 days. John Paul was the first Pope in history to choose a double name.
Among the names most used by the Popes are those of Pio, Gregório, John, Bento, Innocent, Leo and Clemente. There are still no popes with the following names: José, James, André and Lucas. In addition, to date, no pontiff has chosen to be called Peter as the first Pope.
John Paul II
This choice of new identity can also be related to the world view of each Pope. Karol Wojtyla, for example, may have chosen John Paul II to highlight his conservative position at the head of the Church, such as John Paul I, Paul VI and John XXIII, who preceded him.
The Conclave, which will choose the new Pope, begins on Wednesday (7). The pontificate of Pope Francis, who died on April 21, lasted 12 years.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
