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Coverage dated May 7, 2025

Pope Leo XIV: A name steeped in history and hope

Headline from Aleteia

The name “Leo” has been borne by thirteen previous popes, each leaving a distinct mark on the Church’s history.

Aleteia's own description from its feed. We collect headlines and these descriptions, not full articles; read the original reporting below.

Earlier updates in this story

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Reports & sources

5 articles, oldest first.

  1. NBC New York

    The new pope has chosen the name Leo. But what's in a papal name? (opens NBC New York)

    Published

    NBC New York's feed description

    When was the last time we had a pope named Leo? The name a new pope chooses is often the first clue to his priorities.

  2. CNN

    What’s in a name? The history of the papal name Leo (opens CNN)

    Published

    CNN's feed description

    Leo is now tied for the fourth most common name chosen by popes, along with Clement. Only John, Gregory and Benedict have proven more popular.

  3. Aleteia

    Pope Leo XIV: A name steeped in history and hope (opens Aleteia)

    Published

    Aleteia's feed description

    The name “Leo” has been borne by thirteen previous popes, each leaving a distinct mark on the Church’s history.

Identical headlines usually mean shared wire copy. They are counted as separate articles but are not independent confirmation.

Pope Leo XIV: A name steeped in history and hope | Since Then