Quote:
Originally posted by AlphaSigOU
Cardinal Ratzinger selected Benedictus XVI (Benedict XVI), as he was ordained in the Order of St. Benedict (O.S.B.) - the Benedictine monks.
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I certainly stand to be corrected, but I haven't seen any reference to the new Pope being a Benedictine.
One theory that I have had heard already is that the new pope is recalling the memory of Benedict XV, who was seen as a pope having a passion for peace. This would show the new pope's desire to be a peacemaker.
Another theory that I have heard is that he may be recalling and identifying with the Benedictine heritage of scholars who "kept the faith" in the "dark ages."
I'm betting in the days/weeks ahead, he'll say something about why he chose Benedict, which derives from the Latin word for "blessing."
Interesting side note I also heard: Pope John Paul II wanted to be called Pope Stanislas, but was told that would not be allowed.