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Pope John II who reigned from 533-535 was the first pope to change his name. His birth name was Mercurius, the name of a Roman god. That name did not seem appropriate for the leader of the Catholic Church.
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∙ 9y ago
Wiki User
∙ 9y agoAfter St. Peter (Simon) no pope changed his name until the year 533 with Pope John II. His birth name was Mercurio and he did not think it proper to be named for the pagan god, Mercury. Few popes took on a regnal name until the 10th century when the practice became the norm. So, yes, there have been many popes who did not change their names. Even today, it is not a requirement and the newly elected pontiff can retain his Christian name if he so desires.
Wiki User
∙ 13y agoHe took the name Benedict after his election as pope in 2005.
Wiki User
∙ 12y agoPope John II changed his name as it was Mercurius in 533 and he did not think it proper to use the name of a Roman God - Mercury.
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Why do popes have to change their name?
A pope does not have to change his name but most do. It is symbolic of Jesus changing the name of Simon to Peter at the time he named him as leader of his Church and the first pope.
Why did they change the Pope's name?
"They" did not change the name of the new pope, When elected, the new pope has the choice of keeping his Christian name or choosing a regnal name that he wishes to be known as while serving. When Christ named Simon as the first pope he changed his name to Peter. After Peter, the next pope to choose a new name was Pope John II who was elected in the year 533. His given name was Mercurius and he did not think it proper for a Catholic pope to be named for a pagan Roman god - Mercury.
What is the Pope Benedict XVI's first name?
Pope Benedict's first name is Joseph.
Why did Pope Benedict XVI have to change his name?
He didn't have to change his name. He could have kept his birth name but it has been the custom for well over 1000 years to take on a new name at election. Remember, Christ changed Simon's name to Peter when he appointed him as the first pope.
How do they choose a new name for the pope?
A person who is elected pope (Bishop of Rome) does not have to change his name, but many have done so. It is his decision, and the new name is normally announced to the cardinals when he accepts election.
How did Pope Valentine get his name?
At the time of Pope Valentine, popes did not change their name. He received the name Valentine from his parents.
What is the pope's first name?
The current pope is Pope Francis and his birth name was Jorge.
What was the pope's name during the first crusade?
Pope Urban the 2nd
Why did Pope Gerbert change his name into Silvester?
Because his name is GERBERT!
Can the pope keep his own name?
Yes, he is not required to change his name.
Why has no pope taken the name Peter?
There is no rule that prohibits a pope from taking the name of Peter. However, out of respect for the first pope, no man has used that name.
What was the name of the pope Henry the 8th quarreled with?
First it was Pope Clement and then Pope Paul III
