Why Did Pope Francis Chose the Name "Francis"?
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On Saturday morning, March 16, 2013, Pope Francis held his first major audience since his election. He received the 6,000 journalists who had covered the Conclave. Pope Benedict XVI had a similar meeting with the press following his 2005 election, at which he memorably compared his election to facing the "guillotine." Pope Francis told the story of how he picked the name Francis. Amazingly, he picked the name at the very last minute--literally, as the votes were being counted. What an amazing commitment to the subtle movements of the Holy Spirit! Here's an excerpt from the Vatican's English translation of the talk: Some people wanted to know why the Bishop of Rome wished to be called Francis. Some thought of Francis Xavier, Francis De Sales, and also Francis of Assisi. I will tell you the story. During the election, I was seated next to the Archbishop Emeritus of São Paolo and Prefect Emeritus of the Congregation for the Clergy, Cardinal Claudio
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March 20, 2013