by Dr. Eugen Schochenmaier
With speculation mounting about who will succeed Pope Francis, one of the most intriguing questions is: What name will the next pope choose? The choice of a papal name is not arbitrary - it is steeped in centuries of tradition, personal devotion, and symbolic messaging. A new pope often selects a name that reflects his vision, priorities, and spiritual influences, signaling either continuity with past leadership or a bold new direction for the Church.
Looking at the frontrunners for the papacy, we can make informed predictions about what their papal names might be, based on their nationality, theological stance, and historical inspirations. Here’s a look at some of the likely candidates and the names they might choose.
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The Diplomat Pope: Pietro Parolin (Italy)
As Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Parolin has been at the heart of global Catholic diplomacy, making him a top contender. His choice of name would likely reflect his desire for stability and governance. A strong possibility is Gregory XVII, honoring Pope Gregory I (the Great), a master of church administration and missionary work. Alternatively, he may choose Paul VII, signaling a commitment to Vatican diplomacy and continuity with Pope Paul VI’s reforms.
The Global Voice: Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines)
Often described as "Asia’s Pope Francis", Cardinal Tagle is a charismatic figure known for his outreach to the poor and his commitment to interfaith dialogue. If elected, he might select John XXIV, following the legacy of John XXIII, the architect of Vatican II, reflecting a vision of openness and modernization. Alternatively, he could adopt Francis II, carrying forward Pope Francis' emphasis on social justice and humility.
The Pastoral Peacemaker: Matteo Zuppi (Italy)
Cardinal Zuppi, closely associated with the Sant’Egidio peace movement, has been active in conflict resolution and humanitarian efforts. His papal name would likely highlight these priorities. A strong choice would be Francis II, reaffirming a commitment to care for the marginalized, interreligious dialogue, and social activism. Another possibility is Leo XIV, in honor of Leo XIII, who wrote the landmark encyclical Rerum Novarum on workers' rights and social justice.
The Conservative Scholar: Péter Erdő (Hungary)
As a prominent canon law expert and a leader in Eastern European Catholicism, Cardinal Erdő would likely choose a name that emphasizes doctrinal clarity. Benedict XVII would be a fitting tribute to Benedict XVI, given their shared intellectual rigor and emphasis on tradition. Another possibility is Pius XIII, referencing Pope Pius XII, a figure often associated with strong Catholic identity in the face of secular challenges.
The African Advocate: Fridolin Ambongo Besungu (Democratic Republic of the Congo)
Cardinal Ambongo is known for defending social justice, advocating for the poor, and resisting corruption. If he were to become pope, his choice of name would reflect these commitments. Leo XIV would acknowledge the legacy of Leo XIII, whose papacy focused on workers’ rights and economic justice. Alternatively, he might select Clement XV, following Clement XIV, who engaged with missionaries in Africa and Asia, symbolizing the Church’s growth beyond Europe.
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The Traditionalist: Wim Eijk (Netherlands)
A strong defender of traditional Catholic doctrine in secular Europe, Cardinal Eijk would likely choose a name that reaffirms orthodoxy and Church discipline. A possible choice is Pius XIII, in alignment with Pius XII, a staunch defender of Catholic identity in modern times. Another intriguing option is Adrian VII, which would be a tribute to Adrian VI, the last Dutch pope, who served in the 16th century.
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The Theologian: Marc Ouellet (Canada)
As a former Prefect of the Congregation for Bishops, Cardinal Ouellet has been deeply involved in shaping global Catholic leadership. His papal name would likely reflect a balance between theology and governance. Clement XV would symbolize a reformer’s approach, recalling Clement XIV, who navigated difficult tensions in the Church. Alternatively, Benedict XVII would reflect a strong intellectual and theological foundation, continuing Benedict XVI’s legacy.
The Missionary Legacy: Francis Arinze (Nigeria)
Cardinal Arinze has spent decades promoting Catholicism’s global expansion, particularly in Africa and the developing world. If elected, he might choose Paul VII, honoring Pope Paul VI, who led the Church into a globalized world through missionary efforts. A more unique option is Victor IV, symbolizing early Christian martyrdom and the strength of Catholicism in Africa.
What’s in a Papal Name? More Than Just Tradition
Papal names are not just ceremonial choices - they carry deep historical and theological significance. A new pope’s choice reflects his vision for the Church, his theological orientation, and his desire to align with past pontiffs or saints. Some names, like Francis or John, signal a commitment to reform and social justice, while others, like Pius or Benedict, indicate a return to doctrinal rigor.
While the ultimate decision lies with whoever is elected, the name he chooses will be an early signal of what direction the next papacy will take. Whether we see a Francis II, Benedict XVII, or even an unexpected name, the Catholic world will be watching closely.
Would you like to make a guess? Which name do you think the next pope will take?
Bibliography
- “Who Picks the Next Pope? Meet the Pious Powerbrokers.” The Times, February 20, 2025. Accessed March 4, 2025. https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/who-next-pope-francis-vswt3jhmx.
- “Pope Francis Battles Pneumonia - and Rumors of Resignation.” Reuters, February 18, 2025. Accessed March 4, 2025. https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/pope-francis-battles-pneumonia-rumours-resignation-2025-03-04.
- “How Is a New Pope Chosen? The Answers to These 5 Questions Will Help You.” The Telegraph, February 25, 2025. Accessed March 4, 2025. https://www.thetelegraph.com/news/article/pope-selection-conclave-20184471.php.
- “Who Are the Front-Runners to Be Elected Next Pontiff After Pope Francis?” New York Post, February 18, 2025. Accessed March 4, 2025. https://nypost.com/2025/02/18/world-news/who-are-the-frontrunners-to-be-elected-next-pontiff-after-pope-francis/.
- “Is Conclave Based on a True Story? What to Know About the Real, Secretive Process of Electing the Pope.” Decider, December 17, 2024. Accessed March 4, 2025. https://decider.com/2024/12/17/is-conclave-based-on-a-true-story-how-do-they-pick-the-new-pope/
- “As Pope Francis Lies Sick, the Race to Be His Successor Is Here Already.” The Times, February 22, 2025. Accessed March 4, 2025. https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/who-will-replace-pope-francis-successor-7f0x62q6n
