In the wake of significant changes at the Vatican, the newly appointed pope now stands at a crossroads: the choice of his name will serve as a vital signpost indicating the ideological pathway his papacy may embark upon. Historically, popes have made this choice to symbolize their intentions and values, often selecting names linked to revered saints or previous popes whose characteristics resonate with them.
One of the most notable examples is Pope Francis, whose name pays homage to St. Francis of Assisi, embodying ideals of humility and social care, which have been integral to his reign. Similarly, Pope John Paul II chose his name to honor his predecessor, John Paul I, who held the papacy for a notably brief term.
This tradition dates back to 533 AD when Pope Mercurius, named after a Roman deity, opted for a new name, John II, to distance the papacy from pagan connotations. The selection of names often influences the perception of future policies, with names like John Paul III signaling a commitment to social justice and doctrinal adherence, while others such as Pius XIII suggest a more traditional approach.
The awaited announcement of the new pope's name will arrive in Latin from the balustrade of St. Peter's Basilica, proclaimed by Cardinal Dominique Mamberti, the senior cardinal deacon, alongside the traditional declaration of "Habemus papam," which means "We have a pope."
Patricia Mazzei, Miami's lead reporter for The Times, continues to cover the unfolding events in Florida and Puerto Rico.
One of the most notable examples is Pope Francis, whose name pays homage to St. Francis of Assisi, embodying ideals of humility and social care, which have been integral to his reign. Similarly, Pope John Paul II chose his name to honor his predecessor, John Paul I, who held the papacy for a notably brief term.
This tradition dates back to 533 AD when Pope Mercurius, named after a Roman deity, opted for a new name, John II, to distance the papacy from pagan connotations. The selection of names often influences the perception of future policies, with names like John Paul III signaling a commitment to social justice and doctrinal adherence, while others such as Pius XIII suggest a more traditional approach.
The awaited announcement of the new pope's name will arrive in Latin from the balustrade of St. Peter's Basilica, proclaimed by Cardinal Dominique Mamberti, the senior cardinal deacon, alongside the traditional declaration of "Habemus papam," which means "We have a pope."
Patricia Mazzei, Miami's lead reporter for The Times, continues to cover the unfolding events in Florida and Puerto Rico.
