As Robert Prevost makes history as the first American to ascend to the papacy, choosing the name Pope Leo XIV, many around the world are asking the same question: why do popes change their names? The tradition, steeped in centuries of symbolism and spiritual meaning, marks one of the most significant acts a new pope performs upon his election.
The practice dates back to the sixth century, when Pope John II became the first to adopt a new name, rejecting his birth name, Mercurius, because it honored a pagan god. Since then, nearly every pope has chosen a name to reflect his vision, honor past popes, or signal the spiritual tone of his reign.
BREAKING: Robert Prevost takes the name Pope Leo XIV, honoring a centuries-old papal tradition of choosing a new name upon election. https://t.co/9zKXuFJ2Ed #PopeLeoXIV pic.twitter.com/0VKaBLkV0Y— BBC News (@BBCWorld) May 25, 2025
In the case of Pope Leo XIV, Vatican insiders say Prevost selected the name to honor Pope Leo XIII, known for his advocacy of workers’ rights and social reform, as well as to send a message of courage and leadership. “Leo means lion,” one Vatican official explained. “It’s a name that signals strength, justice, and fearlessness.”
John Allen, a veteran Vatican analyst, told CNN, “When a pope chooses his name, he’s telling the world what kind of shepherd he intends to be. Pope Leo XIV is already setting a bold tone.”
John Allen: “The papal name is like a mission statement. Leo XIV is signaling courage, social reform, and a break from the status quo.” https://t.co/1vREwlIGWl #Vatican pic.twitter.com/0PZkBXUl9R— CNN (@CNN) May 25, 2025
Social media has been buzzing with curiosity and excitement. A viral tweet from @PopCrave read, “Robert Prevost is now Pope Leo XIV. Here’s why popes change their names: tradition, meaning, and a glimpse into their vision.”
PopCrave: “Why do popes change their names? It’s about legacy, meaning, and the message they want to send. Pope Leo XIV chose his name with purpose.” https://t.co/SmI7mQk4zA #BreakingNews pic.twitter.com/Bymw2d9eBg— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) May 25, 2025
Even political figures have weighed in. President Kamala Harris tweeted, “Congratulations to Pope Leo XIV. May his papacy bring compassion, justice, and unity to the world.”
President Kamala Harris: “Congratulations to Pope Leo XIV on this historic moment. We look forward to his message of compassion and peace.” https://t.co/NKbJE7zNMG #WorldNews pic.twitter.com/Fy2qzntzBd— Reuters (@Reuters) May 25, 2025
As Pope Leo XIV prepares for his first major public address, Vatican watchers say his choice of name offers a clear signal: this is a pope ready to roar on the world stage, guided by faith, justice, and a bold commitment to the future.
