Why the Pope doesn’t use his real name

Warning: SPOILERS ahead for Conclave!

In the Roman Catholic tradition, a new pope not only assumes a deeply significant role but also embraces a new identity, which happens at the end of the Conclave. Becoming the Pope of the Catholic Church is a big deal and not a role to be taken lightly. As such, the new Pope must mark a paradigm shift in his life to prepare for the enormous responsibility of the role.

As Conclave shows that when a new Pope is chosen, this change of identity begins with the choice of a papal name, which is a symbolic religious action rich in meaning, reverence, and intention. The name selected often reflects past popes, saintly figures or values ​​that the new pope wishes to embody, sending a message to the world and setting the tone for his papacy. At the end of Conclavethe new pope chooses the name Pope Innocent, but there is much more to it than just choosing a name at random.

Popes choose a new name to honor previous popes

History and honor are important to the Pope and Catholic cardinals

Since the 6th century – although more widely adopted since the 10th century –popes chose a new name to signal their personal connection to a particular saint or previous pope. This tradition began as a symbolic gesture, an indication that the newly appointed spiritual leader intends to follow in the footsteps of a revered predecessor. It is a practice rooted in humility and reverence, with each pope aiming to carry on the legacy of previous leaders or renew the Church’s connection with its spiritual ancestors.

One example is Pope Benedict XVI, who chose his name in honor of Saint Benedict, the founder of the Benedictine Order. Known for his emphasis on stability and commitment to spiritual growth, Saint Benedict represented a return to tradition and spiritual integrity. Likewise, Benedict XVI’s papacy emphasized doctrinal purity and the revitalization of Christian values, themes he presented through this choice of name.

An even better example is Pope John Paul II, who chose his name to honor his immediate predecessorsPope John XXIII, Pope Paul VI and John Paul I, all of whom played key roles in modernizing the Church. By adopting both names, Pope John Paul II recognized their influence while suggesting continuity and stability. This powerful tribute reflected his desire to embrace his dedication to unity and progress within the Church, while paving his path as pope for the modern world.

The Pope’s name can also be used to send a message

They choose a name based on something they want their papacy to represent

Choosing a new name is not just a symbolic act of respect. It is also a subtle but powerful way for a pope to communicate his intentions and vision for the future of the Church. For example, when the current Pope Francis adopted his name in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, he signaled a shift toward humility, peace, and advocacy for the poor. Saint Francis is known for his compassion and devotion to those on the margins, a message that Pope Francis wanted to focus on in his papacy with his motto “Miserando until Eligendo” (literally, having mercy, choosing him).

In Conclave (2024)the fictional narrative highlights how name selection can act as a strategic announcement of a new vision. As the cardinals meet to elect a new leader, each cardinal has selected a name he would use if elected Pope. This not only reflects the individual’s personal beliefs, but also serves as an olive branch or flag for change, resonating with Catholic believers around the world. This choice of name is carefully observed, and the symbolism says a lot about the direction the new pope intends to take.

Conclave Cardinal Benitez is an intersex individual and uses the title Pope Innocent in a multifaceted way. He uses his title to show that not only does he want to fight for innocence, but that he is innocent as that is how God created him to be. It’s a brilliant use of the name, conveying his purpose as Pope as well as his nature as a person.

In ConclaveAs in real life, Pope Innocent’s symbolic act takes on cinematic importance. He uses his title to convey who he is as a person, as popes do in real life, as well as to convey the message he wants to present as the new Pope of the Catholic Church. Ultimately, the Pope’s name highlights the enormous pressure and expectations he faces as he pledges to lead the world’s Catholics.