Why Does Every New Pope Pick a New Name?

When white smoke rises from the Sistine Chapel and the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica ring out, the world knows a new pope has been chosen. 

But before he steps out to greet the crowd, the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church must make one deeply symbolic decision: choosing a new name. It may seem like a small gesture, but in reality, this moment speaks volumes.

The tradition of popes adopting new names dates back to the 6th century, when Pope John II decided to let go of his birth name, Mercurius named after a Roman god. A pope bearing the name of a pagan deity simply didn’t sit well with the Church’s Christian identity, and so began a custom that continues to this day. 

Every pope since has followed suit, selecting a name that reflects their values, hopes, and the direction they intend to lead the Church.

More than a title, a papal name is a signal. It tells the faithful what matters most to the new pontiff. Take Pope Francis, for instance. His name honours St. Francis of Assisi, a man known for his humility, love for the poor, and devotion to peace. That choice wasn’t just spiritual, it was a message: this papacy would focus on compassion, simplicity, and care for the marginalized.

Pope Benedict XVI, before him, chose a name that recalled both intellectual depth and a commitment to unity. He wanted to reflect reconciliation and the rebuilding of faith in a changing world. Each papal name is like a mission statement in disguise.

But not all names are fair game. One name that has been consistently avoided is Peter. Out of deep reverence for St. Peter—the Church’s first pope, no one has dared to take up the name again. There’s also an old prophecy that warns a pope named Peter II would be the Church’s final leader. 

While not taken as official doctrine, the weight of that symbolism is enough to keep it off the table.

Other names are skipped for more practical reasons. Names like Urban or Pius, for example, stir up complicated chapters in Church history. Urban VIII was known for condemning Galileo, a decision that continues to haunt conversations around science and faith. Pius XII, meanwhile, is remembered for his controversial silence during World War II.

Still, some names remain full of possibility. A future pope might choose Leo, in honour of Leo XIII, who was a champion for workers’ rights and social justice. Or perhaps Innocent, a nod to Innocent XIII and his fight against corruption within the Church. 

And if the next pope comes from Africa or Latin America, we might see names like Victor, Gelasius, or Miltiades, honouring early popes of African heritage and sending a powerful message about inclusion and history.

When the new pope finally emerges and his name is announced to the world, it’s more than just a formality. It’s a declaration. A name rooted in history, loaded with meaning, and full of intention.

As the Church looks to the future, that single decision, what name to take, might just be the clearest clue to what comes next.