Yes. Pontiffs select their regnal name based on the ideology of the previous popes -- e.g. who does the current pope want to be most closely associated with. In this case, the last reigning Pope Benedict (Pope Benedict XV -- duh!) held the title from 1914–22, the period of World War I when Pope Benedict XV's policies included strict neutrality, charity towards war victims, and an effort to mediate peace. Pope Benedict XIV's legacy was reeducating Catholic priests and modernizing the church. I think the histories of both previous Pope Benedicts is fitting with the issues the first 21st century pope will be required to address.ScarletInMyVeins said:still no one has answered my question.... have there been 15 other Pope Benedicts? If so that name really isn't doing so well is it?
Given Pope John Paul II's reputation, popularity and the devotion from a quarter-century of Roman Catholics who have known no other pope, the name John Paul III likely won't even be considered for at least another one-hudred years.
The selection of a regnal name really isn't all too different from American politicians selecting a political party, or in the case of not finding one that works, making up a brand new one of their own.
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Should be "too elite".