7 Faith-filled baby names inspired by Pope Leo XIV

Chicago’s Cardinal Robert Prevost has just become pope, choosing the popular moniker Leo for his pontificate. It’s a joyful time for Catholic families, and a perfect excuse to pick a baby name with special meaning. From Leo and Robert (two of his own names) to saints he admires (hello, St. Augustine!), here are seven warm, faith-filled names to consider (with a dash of humor).

Leo is an obvious pick — it literally means “lion,” a symbol of courage and bold faith. It’s also been a go-to name for popes throughout the centuries. So not only would your son share a name with a pope, he'd also be paying homage to St. Leo the Great. Short and sweet, Leo still has lionhearted charm, and your son will thank you when he's the first in class to be able to write his name!

Robert is Pope Leo XIV’s birth name, meaning “bright fame.” It evokes the hope that your son will shine God’s light in the world. It is also the name of St. Robert Bellarmine, a famous saint and Doctor of the Church, so your little Robert (or Roberto) has a strong Catholic legacy. It’s timeless and family-friendly — Bob (the derivation favored by the new pope), Rob or Bobby are adorable nicknames for any boy.

For wisdom and warmth, Augustine honors the great theologian and Doctor of the Church, St. Augustine, whose writings inspired our pope, and millions of other faithful. Augustine means “great” or “venerable.” It’s a serious name with depth, but you can shorten it to Gus or Auggie for everyday life. Imagine a curious little Augustine asking all the “why's” — just as the saint once did, though hopefully giving Mom and Dad a bit more peace at bedtime!

Ambrose was the bishop who baptized St. Augustine, so it connects nicely to our Pope’s spiritual roots. The name means “immortal,” giving it an old-soul dignity. It sounds rare but charming — you might even call him Ambie or Brose. Little Ambrose might grow into a wise, gentle leader, just like his namesake.

Peter, after St. Peter the Apostle, and of course the first pope, literally means “rock." It’s literally a rock-solid Catholic name — the very foundation of the Church. Friendly and timeless, Peter suggests steadiness and faith. Maybe your little Peter will be “the rock” of your family, grounded and true (perhaps skipping stones by the riverbank).

The beauty of this name is that it is the second name of the new pope, as well as the papal name of his predecessor, Pope Francis. The name means “free man,” and it evokes everything from birdsong to simplicity. Inspired by St. Francis of Assisi, it’s a name filled with compassion, joy, and love for all creation (including the occasional seagull perched on a Vatican chimney!). Naming your son Francis honors not only a great pope, but a tradition of kindness and humility that never goes out of style. And let’s be honest — “Frankie” is just adorable on a toddler in overalls.

Last but not least, Joseph is a quintessential family name. St. Joseph, the silent guardian of Jesus, was a humble carpenter and protector of the Holy Family. The name means “God will increase,” promising God’s blessing. Joseph is warm and down-to-earth — evoking the safety of a dad in the workshop or the kindness of a grandpa. It’s a plainspoken name packed with love and faith.