A Sacred Tradition: The Importance of a Papal Name

When Cardinal Robert Prevost of Chicago was elected to the papacy on May 8, 2025, he joined the ranks of a long line of popes who have chosen a new name to mark the beginning of their papacy. It is a tradition that has been followed for over 1,400 years, signaling a spiritual transformation, a new mission, and a deeper connection to the legacy of the Catholic Church.

In the days following his election, the question asked of Prevost was not about politics, doctrine, or theology—it was a question about his identity as the new pope: “By what name do you wish to be called?” Without hesitation, Cardinal Prevost replied in Latin, “Leo XIV.” And just like that, Robert became Pope Leo XIV.

The Tradition and Its Deep Symbolism

The tradition of changing a pope’s name isn’t merely a quirky custom—it’s an integral part of papal history and symbolism. The act of adopting a new name is rooted in the Bible. For example, God changed the names of important figures to signify a new purpose—Abram became Abraham, and Simon became Peter. This transformation symbolized a shift in identity and mission.

Similarly, when a cardinal is elected pope, he chooses a name that reflects his aspirations for his papacy and the legacy he wants to build. There are no official rules governing the name chosen; it’s entirely personal. As one Vatican analyst put it, “You’re basically setting the tone for your entire papacy in one word.” The new pope’s name is not just a label; it’s a declaration of the direction he intends to take the Church.

Why Pope Leo XIV?

So, why did Robert Prevost choose the name Leo? Some believe that the choice is a direct nod to Pope Leo XIII, a revered pope known for his reforms, advocacy for workers’ rights, and his ability to balance tradition with modernization. Pope Leo XIII’s legacy was built on a commitment to social justice, and many see a parallel between him and Pope Leo XIV.

Like Leo XIII, Leo XIV spent significant time abroad as a missionary—specifically in Peru, where he lived among the poor and learned firsthand the struggles of marginalized communities. In his previous role within the Vatican, Leo XIV was a key figure in the Church’s administration, overseeing one of the most powerful departments. However, unlike many within the Vatican’s old guard, he stayed out of the scandals and politics that have plagued the Church in recent decades.

By choosing the name Leo, Pope Leo XIV may be signaling that he intends to lead the Church through reform, but with a fresh perspective and on his own terms. This was reinforced in his first homily, where he declared that Christians are “God’s chosen people,” echoing the words of St. Peter: “We are the people God has chosen to proclaim the mighty works of the one who called us out of darkness into his marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9).

What’s In a Name? Why He Didn’t Choose Francis II

While Pope Leo XIV’s choice to honor his predecessor, Pope Leo XIII, makes sense given the similarities in their respective calls for reform, one aspect of his name choice was highly significant: he did not choose “Francis II.” Although Pope Francis has been a major influence on the direction of the Catholic Church, Leo XIV’s decision to opt for his own name rather than continue the Francis legacy suggests that he intends to chart his own course.

The choice not to take the name Francis II is notable because it signals that Pope Leo XIV respects the work and legacy of Pope Francis, but he doesn’t feel the need to carry the mantle of the current pope’s style and agenda. In the Catholic Church, a pope’s name is a message. Choosing Leo over Francis demonstrates that Pope Leo XIV respects the reforms of the past but will not be bound by them. He is carving his own path, focusing on the future of the Church while honoring its traditions.

The Name No One Dares to Use: Peter II

A fascinating aspect of papal name tradition is that no pope has ever dared to adopt the name “Peter II.” This is a sign of respect for Saint Peter, who was appointed by Jesus himself to lead the Church. To take the name Peter would be seen as presumptuous—almost as if replacing the first pope, an act that would be viewed as overstepping. The message, therefore, is clear: a pope is the successor of Peter, not his replacement.

Pope Leo XIV’s choice of the name Leo avoids any such claim to ultimate authority, choosing instead a name that symbolizes strength and reform without challenging the original foundation of the Church. It’s an acknowledgment that while the pope is a leader, the history of the Church—beginning with Peter—cannot be surpassed or replaced.

What Leo XIV’s Name Tells Us About His Vision for the Church

Pope Leo XIV’s name change isn’t just symbolic—it’s also a reflection of the direction in which he intends to lead the Church. In the choice of “Leo,” we see a deliberate link to Pope Leo XIII, who championed the rights of workers and was a proponent of social justice, issues that remain critical to today’s world. By choosing this name, Leo XIV is signaling that he too will champion the causes of the marginalized and push for reforms that address the needs of society’s most vulnerable.

In a time when the Catholic Church is facing numerous challenges—from sexual abuse scandals to accusations of corruption and inefficiency—Pope Leo XIV’s name is not only a reflection of tradition, but also a call to modernize the Church. His mission, like Pope Leo XIII’s, will likely focus on balancing tradition with the need for change, ensuring the Church remains relevant in the 21st century while staying true to its core values.

A Name, A Legacy, A Mission

Choosing the name Leo was more than a simple decision for Pope Leo XIV; it was a statement about the future of the Church. It signals his commitment to reform, justice, and the welfare of the poor, while acknowledging the need for the Church to evolve in a rapidly changing world. The choice of Leo XIII’s legacy suggests that Pope Leo XIV intends to lead the Church with a blend of tradition and progress, a message that will likely resonate with Catholics around the world.

As Leo XIV settles into his papacy, his leadership style and the policies he champions will undoubtedly shape the future of the Catholic Church. The name he chose reflects a clear vision: one of reform, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to serving the people of God.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for the Catholic Church

The election of Pope Leo XIV marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Catholic Church. With his decision to adopt the name Leo, he is signaling a commitment to reform, social justice, and a focus on the future of the Church. His choice of name, like the decisions of popes before him, carries deep symbolism, setting the tone for his papacy. The question remains: how will Pope Leo XIV navigate the challenges facing the Church, and how will his leadership shape the path forward? Only time will tell, but his name suggests a commitment to both tradition and transformation—a leader for the present and the future.