The Catholic Church has a longstanding tradition of Popes changing their names from their baptismal name upon election, a practice that dates back to the early centuries of Christianity. According to tradition, this name change signifies a second birth, marking the Pope’s new role as the Supreme Pontiff.
Out of 266 Popes in history, only 129 have chosen a new name, with the tradition becoming standard practice starting in 955 with Pope John XII. Some Popes choose names that reflect continuity with their predecessors, while others select different names to signify innovation and change.
The most commonly used names in Papal history include John, Gregory, Benedict, and Pius. Some Popes have also chosen double names, such as John Paul I and John Paul II, to emphasize continuity with previous pontificates. The choice of name is a significant aspect of a Pope’s identity and often reflects their values and priorities.
Vatican News
