The naming of popes

I remember the last time we had popes dying. Before John Paul I was elected, some folks were saying that one Cardinal Sicola was on the very short list, and seemed ideal for the position. The only question anyone had was whether the world was ready for a Pope Sicola.

Of course, this ignores the fact that the new Pope adopts a name of his choosing on assuming office. Thus, he would not have been known as Pope Sicola unless he really wanted to.

Pope John Paul II, of course, took his name to honor Pope John Paul I, who had held office for mere weeks before a fatal heart attack. The next Pope may choose to honor John Paul II, or he may not.

The only thing I'm sure of is that if he does, he will not do so by choosing the name "George Ringo".