Catholics/popes

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Expert: Sal - 7/6/2008


Question
i was looking at a list of popes. when did the tradition begin on newly elected pope taking on the name of a previous pope and why?

Answer
Dear Dan:

The tradition of a newly elected pope changing his name began in 533 AD. The newly elected Pope had the first name of Mercury, the name of a pagan god. So the Pope changed his name to John II in honor of a previous pope. The name change is not mandatory, but most follow the tradition. The name change may be of a previous pope or of a favorite saint. The name change today signifies the "new creation" that the pope is as he accepts a new life as the Vicar of Christ, the earthly head of God's One True Church.

I hope that this helps.

God Bless You,
Sal

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Sal

Expertise

I love the Catholic Church and her book, the Bible. I will try to answer your questions with an emphasis on God*s Word. I believe the Catholic Church is the Church established by Jesus Christ for the salvation of the world. I can answer questions pertaining to the biblical basis for Catholic beliefs. I can also explain the beliefs of Jehovah*s Witnesses, Mormons, and Seventh Day Adventists as related to Catholic doctrine.

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I have studied the Catholic faith for twenty years. I have conducted adult education classes in the teachings of the Catholic Church. I have taught teenagers the Catholic faith. I have taught Bible Study.
   

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Knights of Columbus


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Southern Cross

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College graduate

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