Papal name signals new direction: What’s next for the Catholic Church? | World News

When Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio from Argentina became pope in 2013, he was relatively unknown outside his homeland. However, his choice of the name Francis, inspired St Francis of Assisi, spoke volumes about his values and vision.
The saint was known for his love for the poor, animals, and the environment, as well as his opposition to war. These would become major themes of Pope Francis’ time as leader of the Catholic Church.
As 133 Catholic cardinals prepare to enter the conclave on Wednesday to choose a new pope, the world is waiting to see which name will be announced  and what it might mean for the Church’s future.
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Pope Francis had once said the name John might be a good choice for his successor. This would bring back memories of Pope John XXIII (1958–1963), known as “The Good Pope”, according to Reuters.

He was a friendly figure who helped calm tensions during the Cuban Missile Crisis and started the Second Vatican Council, a major meeting that brought important changes to the Church.
Another possible name is Paul  in honour of Pope Paul VI (1963–1978), who followed John XXIII. Paul VI was more cautious and tried to hold the Church steady after major reforms. As Reuters reports, “some cardinals say quietly that after Pope Francis, a new Pope Paul is exactly what is needed.” Paul VI also made firm decisions on Church teachings, including a 1968 letter rejecting the use of birth control Catholics.
Another double Papal name?
Some more traditional names seen in the past include Leo, Gregory, Clement and Pius. There’s also Benedict  a name which could pay tribute to Pope Benedict XVI, Francis’ conservative predecessor, or Benedict XV, who led the Church during World War One and pleaded for peace.Story continues below this ad
It’s also possible the next pope might take the name Francis II, signalling a desire to follow the same path as his predecessor.
In 1978, Pope John Paul I broke tradition choosing a double name, honouring both John XXIII and Paul VI. When he died just 33 days later, his successor became John Paul II, continuing the tribute.
As per Reuters report, the next pope might follow this idea and combine names, such as John Francis, to reflect both past reforms and Francis’ global popularity. His recent funeral drew around 400,000 people to Rome  a sign of how deeply he connected with many around the world.
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