New names for popes??

Monicathree · #1 Apr 5, '05, 10:32 pm

Why do popes take on new names when they are elected? From where do they get the name? Thank you!

peace

Dr. Colossus · #2 Apr 6, '05, 11:27 am

Popes are not required to take a new name. Pope John II started this tradition. His original name was Mercurius, which was the name of the Roman messenger god (Mercury).

Monicathree · #3 Apr 7, '05, 8:15 pm

So where from where do they pick the new name. Also, did Pope John II do this because his name was pagan and thought it inappropriate?? Thanks!

chevalier · #4 Apr 7, '05, 9:33 pm

Yes, Mercurius wasn't appropriate for a Pope. The next Pope who changed his name was someone whose baptismal name was Peter and he didn't know to name himself after Saint Peter, the first Pope.

They get names from Catholic saints like John or Paul and those monastic-style names like Innocent or Pius.

**Edwin1961** · #5 Apr 8, '05, 1:33 pm

Francis would be a change.
Pope Francis I
(Cardinal Arinze...are you listening? hint hint hint)

Milliardo · #6 Apr 9, '05, 3:51 pm

Quote:

Originally Posted by Edwin1961

Francis would be a change.
Pope Francis I
(Cardinal Arinze...are you listening? hint hint hint)

Francis is a good name. Thomas is as well. Or taking from the Bible, Joseph. Those names would be good.