A Tradition With Deep Meaning

When Cardinal Robert Prevost of Chicago ascended to the papacy on May 8, 2025, he made history as the first American-born pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. But this decision was not just a casual choice—it is part of a sacred tradition that has been followed for over 1,400 years. Every pope who has been elected since Pope John II has chosen a new name to signify a spiritual transformation, marking the beginning of a new mission and signaling which legacy or figure they wish to emulate.

This tradition of name-changing is not just symbolic—it has profound theological and political significance. Popes, by choosing a new name, declare the direction they intend to take their papacy and how they wish to be remembered in history. It is also an acknowledgment that they are taking on a new identity as the leader of the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics. While the practice of taking a papal name may seem strange to outsiders, it is a powerful ritual within the Church, representing a new beginning for both the pope and the faithful.

The Tradition of Papal Name Change: Its Origins

The tradition of changing one’s name upon becoming pope dates back to the 6th century. The first pope to adopt a papal name was Pope John II, who abandoned his birth name, Mercury, after his election. The decision to change his name was made to avoid the association with the Roman god Mercury, which was seen as incompatible with the role of the leader of the Catholic Church. Since then, every pope has chosen a name, with some opting for names already carried by previous popes—like the enduringly popular names John, Leo, or Paul—while others opt for entirely new names that signify a break with tradition or a specific spiritual message.

The name chosen by each pope is seen as an extension of their mission. For example, Pope John Paul II chose his name to honor both the popes who came before him—John XXIII and Paul VI—while also signaling his own mission of global outreach and reconciliation. Similarly, Pope Francis chose his name in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, known for his commitment to poverty, humility, and service to the poor, signaling the direction his papacy would take in terms of social justice and compassion.

Why Did Robert Prevost Choose Leo XIV?

The selection of the name “Leo” by Pope Leo XIV is steeped in symbolism. The name is most closely associated with Pope Leo XIII, who is widely regarded as a reformer within the Church. Pope Leo XIII is particularly remembered for his efforts to modernize the Church in the face of the industrial revolution and growing social inequality. He is best known for his papal encyclical Rerum Novarum, published in 1891, which championed the rights of workers and called for social justice in a rapidly changing world. The encyclical laid the groundwork for Catholic social teaching on issues such as workers’ rights, the dignity of labor, and the need for governments to address poverty and inequality.

By choosing the name Leo, Pope Leo XIV may be signaling a desire to continue the work of Pope Leo XIII—focusing on social justice and the needs of the marginalized. This is especially relevant in a time when the Church is facing numerous challenges, from the economic inequality exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic to the growing refugee crises around the world. Pope Leo XIV’s name choice suggests that he is not only acknowledging the past but also positioning himself as a pope who will work to bring the Church’s teachings into the modern world.

Pope Leo XIV’s Personal Journey: A Mission of Service

Pope Leo XIV’s decision to take the name Leo is also a reflection of his personal experiences. Having spent over two decades as a missionary in Peru, he has seen firsthand the struggles of the poor and the importance of social justice. Unlike some members of the Vatican hierarchy who have been embroiled in scandals, Leo XIV has kept a relatively low profile and avoided the political infighting that has often plagued the Church’s leadership. This background in mission work and his avoidance of Vatican politics suggest that Pope Leo XIV may be looking to bring a fresh perspective to the papacy, focusing more on service to others than on political power.

In his first homily as pope, Leo XIV emphasized the idea of Christians as “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). This message of inclusivity and service is likely to be a key theme of his papacy, as he seeks to address global issues such as poverty, migration, and inequality.

The Significance of Not Choosing “Francis II”

While Pope Leo XIV’s name choice signals a connection to Pope Leo XIII, it also suggests a break from the current papacy of Pope Francis. The decision not to take the name “Francis II” is notable because it indicates that Pope Leo XIV does not wish to be seen as simply continuing Pope Francis’s legacy. Although Pope Francis has made significant strides in advocating for the poor, fighting climate change, and calling for peace and justice around the world, Pope Leo XIV’s decision to choose his own name suggests that he intends to forge his own path, while still acknowledging the influence of his predecessor.

In many ways, the choice to forgo “Francis II” also signals that Pope Leo XIV is preparing for a new era in the Church—one that might look beyond the Franciscan model of humility and focus more on reform and modernization in the face of global challenges. By selecting a name that honors Pope Leo XIII, a reformer, Leo XIV sets the tone for a papacy that will be both traditional and forward-thinking.

A Name, A Message, A Vision

In the Catholic tradition, a pope’s name is more than just a title—it is a declaration of intent, a mission statement for how he plans to lead the Church. Pope Leo XIV’s choice of name, like that of his predecessor Pope Leo XIII, signifies a commitment to social justice and reform. In a world facing growing inequality, climate change, and political division, Pope Leo XIV’s papacy could mark a return to the Church’s roots in advocating for the vulnerable and marginalized, while also modernizing the Church’s response to global issues.

Conclusion: Pope Leo XIV’s Vision for the Future

The election of Pope Leo XIV marks a new chapter in the history of the Catholic Church. His choice to adopt the name Leo not only honors the legacy of Pope Leo XIII but also signals his commitment to reform and social justice. As the first American pope, Leo XIV brings with him a unique perspective on global issues and a commitment to serving the Church and its followers in a rapidly changing world. The message behind his name is clear: while tradition is important, the Church must remain relevant and responsive to the challenges of today’s world.

In the years to come, Pope Leo XIV’s leadership will undoubtedly shape the direction of the Church, as he balances respect for tradition with a desire to reform and address the pressing issues of our time. His papacy is poised to be one of great change, one that could leave a lasting impact on the Church and the world at large.