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MaryBeth7992's avatar

When did newly elected Pontiffs begin to change their names from their given names? Was their significance in the changing ?

Asked by MaryBeth7992 (68points) December 19th, 2018

First, let me promise I will not always ask Catholic questions. However, I am quite interested in the topic of religion. Why we believe or not believe a certain religion as opposed to another. I find it extremely fascinating.

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2 Answers

janbb's avatar

According to Mr Google:

The new pope then simply states what his name will be. ... The first pope to change his name did so in the Sixth Century because he was named after the Roman god Mercury, and he thought it inappropriate to carry that name as pope. He chose to be called John II. After that some popes changed their names and some did not.Mar 4, 2013

zenvelo's avatar

The first Pope had his name changed. He was Simon, but then Jesus said, “You are Peter, and upon this rock, I will build my church.”

So the first Pope’s name translates to “Rocky”.

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