How and Why Does the Pope Choose a New Name?

[Robert_in_SD]

Hello All;

This may seem like a simple question, but enquiring minds want to know… How and Why the new name for a Pope?

(Links to answers are also much appreciated.)

Many thanks,

 

[maryprayforme]

This tradition goes back to the 6th century when one of the popes elected had the name of the pagan god Mercury. He changed his name to what I cannot remember exactly. I think it was John I but don’t quote me on that. But that has been the tradition since.

 

[Br.Rich_SFO]

maryprayforme:

This tradition goes back to the 6th century when one of the popes elected had the name of the pagan god Mercury. He changed his name to what I cannot remember exactly. I think it was John I but don’t quote me on that. But that has been the tradition since.

It also reflects that Christ changed Peters name and Saul changed his name and God changed Abraham’s name when they moved into a different role. The meaning of the name is sometimes used to make a statement about the general direction that this person will follow.

 

[SMHW]

Even though it is traditional (small ‘t’) to take a new name, for reasons already stated, I believe a Pope is free to use his birth name if he desires.

 

[Almeria]

Better question – to me – is when exactly does he choose? Do all the Cardinals have one picked out pre-concave just in case? Or is the announcement of the new Pope delayed until the Pope has chosen his name? One would think that with the proper discernment of a name, a snap decision isn’t the way to go…

 

[maryprayforme]

After the new pontiff is elected, he has the choice to accept or refuse the new office. One of the things he does after is chooses a name for himself - exctly when through the post election I am not certain. He is then fitted in the white cassock and the cardinals and the newly elected pope engage in prayers and hymns before he comes out. The exact order of when all this happens I am not sure. But for these reasons, he does not come out immediately.