The selection of a symbolic new name is one of the first acts of a new pope and can set the tone for his pontificate. For example, St. John Paul II’s choice of name signaled his intention to continue as a church reformer (his predecessor, Pope John Paul I, chose his name in honor of the two popes of the Second Vatican Council). Similarly, Pope Francis chose to honor St. Francis of Assisi, who lived a life of humble service to the poor, and St. Francis Xavier, a founding member of the Jesuits. Although there is no formal requirement to select a new name, the tradition is well established. The last pope to keep his baptismal name was Marcellus II in 1555.