This was the start of the long list of popes named Leo, Gregory and Benedict, said Melloni.
CNN: What's in a name? Clues to be found in next pope's moniker
2.
John XXIII got away with it because he said it was in deference to his parish saint, John the Baptist, Melloni said.
CNN: What's in a name? Clues to be found in next pope's moniker
3.
"In a church so hit by financial scandals, someone who has lived a life of poverty and rigor lays a good foundation for the papacy, " said Mr. Melloni.