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Pope Leo XIII: the inspiration for the new pope’s name

What we know about the "Social Pope"

Pope Leo XIII: the inspiration for the new pope’s name
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StarsInsider
24/06/2025 16:30 ‧ 6 days ago | StarsInsider

LIFESTYLE

Papacy

Robert Francis Prevost was elected pope, and like those before him, he had to choose a name. The new pontiff chose Pope Leo XIV, but why?

According to theologian Dennis Doyle, the name chosen by a newly elected pope indicates "a certain spirit and direction and vision of the new pope." In Prevost’s case, he was inspired by Pope Leo XIII, who headed the Catholic Church from 1878 to 1903.

In this gallery, you’ll get to know more about the man behind the inspiration for the new pope’s name. Click through to get started.

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