Article Summary
The tradition of Popes taking a new name began in 533 CE with Pope John II, who was previously named Mercurius. This change was made to distance himself from the pagan god Mercury. The last Pope to use his birth name was Marcellus II in 1555. Today, the chosen papal name reflects the values and legacy that the new pontiff wishes to emulate.
What This Means for You
- Understanding the historical context of papal names can provide insight into the values and legacy that the new Pope wishes to uphold.
- Knowing the reasons behind the changes in papal names can also help in understanding the cultural and religious dynamics of the time.
- Being familiar with this tradition can enhance one’s appreciation for the symbolism and significance behind a Pope’s chosen name.
- This knowledge can also serve as a conversation starter or topic of interest for those interested in religious history and tradition.
Original Post
There’s no church law that says popes need to take a new name, but it has been the custom for centuries. In the early church, popes regularly kept their birth names.
The first to take a special papal name was John II in 533 CE. He had been baptised as “Mercurius” and didn’t think it proper to associate the name of a pagan god (the Roman deity Mercury) with the papacy.
Later, as Italian dominance of the papacy declined, popes elected from outside the peninsula opted to take on monikers more familiar to Roman ears.
The last pope to use their birth name in the role was Marcellus II, who was elected in 1555.
Today, the chosen papal name is considered to reflect a pope or saint whose values and legacy the new pontiff wishes to emulate.
Key Terms
- Papal name
- Church law
- Pagan god
- Italian dominance
- Pontiff
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