Pope Leo XIV's Name Choice: A Nod to Social Justice in the Digital Age

Vatican City, May 11, 2025 – In a historic address to cardinals, newly elected Pope Leo XIV revealed the reasoning behind his papal name selection. He cited Pope Leo XIII and his encyclical Rerum Novarum, a landmark document addressing social justice issues during the first Industrial Revolution, as a key influence. "I chose to take the name to continue down the path of Pope Leo XIII," Pope Leo XIV stated, highlighting the Church's continued dedication to social justice. This choice resonates deeply as the Church confronts the challenges of a new technological age. The Pope's words emphasize the Church's commitment to using its social teachings to navigate the complexities of the modern world, particularly in the face of rapid technological advancements and their impact on human dignity. The selection of this name signals a commitment to social justice and engagement with the pressing issues of our time.