Pope John Paul I, upon his election in 1978, made the distinctive choice to take a double name, a unique decision at the time. He selected "John Paul" not as a change from a previous papal name, but as his new regnal name to profoundly honor his two immediate predecessors, marking a significant moment in papal history.
A Tribute to Predecessors
The primary reason for Pope John Paul I's selection of his double name was to gratefully acknowledge and pay homage to Pope John XXIII and Pope Paul VI. Both pontiffs played pivotal roles in his ecclesiastical career, providing a direct connection between his personal journey within the Church and the broader leadership of the papacy.
- Pope John XXIII: He was instrumental in Pope John Paul I's path to episcopacy, having named him a bishop. This significant appointment laid the groundwork for his future roles within the Church.
- Pope Paul VI: This predecessor further elevated Pope John Paul I, naming him both the Patriarch of Venice and a Cardinal. These key appointments underscored his growing influence and prepared him for the highest office.
This dual homage reflected a desire for continuity and a deep respect for the legacy of those who had guided the Church before him, as well as those who had personally mentored his rise.
Setting a New Precedent
Beyond honoring his predecessors, Pope John Paul I also established a new tradition by being the first pope to explicitly designate himself "the First" with his chosen name, although the "I" is typically appended by historians rather than being part of his official designation. This subtle yet significant act underscored the originality of his choice and his intention to perhaps signal a new era of papal naming.
For clarity on the predecessors honored:
| Predecessor | Key Appointment Bestowed on John Paul I | Significance to Name Choice |
|---|---|---|
| Pope John XXIII | Named him a bishop | Recognized for initiating his journey as a prelate |
| Pope Paul VI | Named him Patriarch of Venice and Cardinal | Honored for elevating him to crucial leadership positions |
His decision to combine the names of his two immediate predecessors served as a powerful symbol of gratitude and continuity, embodying a desire to bridge the gap between their papacies and his own.
