Joseph Aloysius Ratzinger He was elected Pope on April 19, 2005, two days after the death of his predecessor, John Paul II. He chose the name after his appointment as the supreme authority of the Catholic Church Benedict XVI
This is how the former German cardinal (Marktl am Inn, Bavaria, April 16, 1927) was known from his election as Pope until his resignation on February 11, 2013, in accordance with the historical tradition of adopting a papal name to hold office.
Said choice was inspired by the memory of Saint Benedict of Nursia, the founder of the Benedictine Order, considered the patron saint of Christianity in the West. He in turn Number XVI is due to the fact that 15 popes of the same name preceded himas explained by The Debate.
Also, the papal name chosen by Joseph Ratzinger was his Memory of Pope Benedict XV who exercised his pontificate from 1914 to 1922 and intervened in World War I to settle the conflict.
I remember Benedict XV, “Prophet of Peace”
“Filled with feelings of wonder and gratitude, I want to talk about why I chose the name Benedict. First, I remember Pope Benedict XV, that courageous prophet of peace who led the Church through turbulent times of war. I am following in his footsteps and I put my ministry at the service of reconciliation and harmony between peoples,” declared Benedict XVI. after his appointment.
Also, I remember Saint Benedict of Nursiaco-patron of Europe, whose life is reminiscent of the Christian roots of Europe. I ask you to help us all to remain firmly in the centrality of Christ in our Christian life: may Christ always be at the forefront of our thoughts and actions!” added the 265th Pope of the Church in his speech.